How To Steam Hot Dog Buns At Home: Full Guide

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

**Summer parties just aren’t the same without hot dog buns, even if they sometimes get dry and tough.**

Steaming hot dog buns is an easy and quick solution to this problem, resulting in warm and soft buns that are perfect for holding your favorite hot dogs, sausages, and toppings. 

Whether you’re looking to steam hot dog buns in the microwave, on the stovetop, or with another method, several options are available to achieve perfectly steamed hot dog buns right at home. 

5 Ways To Steam Hot Dog Buns At Home

1. In the Microwave: The easiest way to steam hot dog buns [1] is in the microwave. Wrap the buns in a damp paper towel and place them on a microwave-safe plate—microwave on high for 15 to 20 seconds or until they are warm and soft.
2. On the Stove: This method requires a pot of boiling water and a steamer basket. Place the buns in the steamer basket and place it over the pot of boiling water. Cover the pot and let the buns steam for 2-3 minutes or until they are warm and soft.
3. In an Oven: This method requires an oven-safe dish with a lid. Fill the dish with boiling water and place the buns in the dish. Cover the dish and place it in the oven at 200°F for 2-3 minutes or until the buns are warm and soft.
4. In an Electric Steamer: If you have an electric steamer, this is the easiest and most convenient method. Place the buns in the steamer basket and turn on the steamer. Steam the buns for 2-3 minutes or until they are warm and soft.
5. On a Grill: This method is perfect for outdoor grilling. Wrap the buns in foil and place them on the grill. Close the grill and let the buns steam for 2-3 minutes or until they are warm and soft.

Read:

• Omaha Steaks Hotdogs Cooking Instructions
• How To Steam Buns Without Steamer?
• How Does Costco Cook Their Hotdogs?

Tips For Steaming Hot Dog Buns To Perfection

• Use a steaming basket or colander placed on top of a pot with boiling water.
• Place a layer of parchment paper or aluminum foil on the bottom of the basket to prevent sticking.
• Steam buns in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure even steaming.
• Keep buns covered with a lid while steaming to trap the steam.
• Steam for about 5-7 minutes or until the buns are warm and soft.
• Serve immediately.

How Do You Steam Buns Without Getting Soggy?

To avoid soggy hot dog buns, start by placing a layer of parchment paper or aluminum foil [2] on the bottom of the steaming basket. 

This will absorb any excess moisture and prevent sticking. Next, make sure to steam the buns in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure even steaming. 

“Some people wanted champagne and caviar when they should have had a beer and hot dogs.”

– Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th US President 

Keep the buns covered with a lid while steaming to trap the steam and prevent moisture from escaping. Avoid oversteaming, as this can cause the buns to become too soft and soggy. 

Finally, serve the buns immediately after steaming to retain their texture and softness.

Is It Better To Boil Or Steam Hot Dogs?

It depends on personal preference. Both boiling and steaming hot dogs can produce a soft, juicy, and flavorful hot dog.

Boiling hot dogs:

• It is a quick and easy method to cook hot dogs
• This can result in a plumper hot dog with a juicier texture
• It can add flavor to the hot dog if spices or seasonings are added to the boiling water

Steaming hot dogs:

• It is a healthier option as it does not require oil or additional liquids
• This can result in a softer, more tender hot dog
• It can help maintain the shape and texture of the hot dog

FAQs

In Conclusion

Steaming hot dog buns at home is a simple and effective way to warm and soften the buns. 

Whether you have a steamer or not, there are various methods available for steaming, including using a double boiler, bamboo steamer, or aluminum foil. 

The key is to heat the buns for 5-7 minutes or until they are thoroughly heated and reach the desired texture. 

With these tips, you can easily enjoy soft and fluffy hot dog buns at home.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/6833/burger-or-hot-dog-buns/
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/aluminum-foil