I use an electric steamer with a steaming basket with 1cm diameter holes to reheat frozen dishes such as lasagne, biryani etc. I remove the meal from the container and place it directly on the steaming rack to assist steam penetration and speed up the process. These food items are ideal for this method as they generally hold their shape when defrosted and very little food falls through the holes.

What about items such as soups and stews etc. which are more liquid? Can these be steamed in a deli, takeaway or microwave container etc., and if so, should I leave the container lid on, off or vented?

I use an electric steamer with a steaming basket with 1cm diameter holes to reheat frozen dishes such as lasagne, biryani etc. I remove the meal from the container and place it directly on the steaming rack to assist steam penetration and speed up the process. These food items are ideal for this method as they generally hold their shape when defrosted and very little food falls through the holes.

What about items such as soups and stews etc. which are more liquid? Can these be efficiently steamed in a deli, takeaway or microwave container etc.?

Assuming the carton is suitable for reheating purposes, should I leave the container lid on, off or vented?