I use the bamboo steamer for many things! I steam corn on the cob, carrots, potatoes, asparagus etc!I steam Pork Shu Mei (Chinese Dumplings). I re heat foods! I recently steamed cabbage wedges to be served on the side of Rubin Sandwiches.The most unique that that I may use it for is to steam eggs instead of boiling them for hard boiled eggs, the shells come off very easy and you can make at least two dozen at a shot! It works much better than boiling!I use it at least once or twice a week and if it should be damaged, I'd buy another one!

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Q: how many racks does the steamer have? thank you in advance for the courtesy of a reply

There are two (2) racks and a bamboo lid. The racks interlock with each other so it doesn't matter which one is put on which! In fact I often rotate the racks during steaming to help equalize the cooking!

Q: Do you put this in a large pt with water, or what? TIA!

You can use a large pot if you don't own a wok. I've used an aluminum pie shield over the top of the pot and rested the steamer baskets on top of the shield. The hole in the middle allows the steam to rise into the baskets without their touching the water and affecting the steaming process. Also, remember not to fill the pot too full! Not much water is necessary for successful steaming.

Q: How high an item can I place inside the basket (i.e. distance between the bottom of the inside to the closed lid)?

Maximum height from top of first layer bamboo to bottom of second layer bamboo is 2 1/2 inches. That is also the measurement from second layer to lid crown.