Apparatus using a method of steam cooking food items in two consecutive steps whereby the food items contained in a food carrier are first preheated in water in a container which is being heated by a heater. After the food items are at or near the cooking temperature, the food carrier is raised above the water and into the steam zone produced by the boiling water for the purpose of steam cooking the food items. A cover is placed on the container so as to retain and concentrate the steam within the container to affect steam cooking of the food items.
