Huat (Sticky Rice Steamer Basket)

A tall, conical woven bamboo basket, fitted over a matching pot of boiling water, used specifically to steam glutinous sticky rice, a dietary staple across Laos and Isaan Thai cuisine.

Material & Construction

Woven bamboo basket fitted to a narrow-necked aluminum or metal pot base, the conical shape allowing steam to circulate evenly through the packed rice.

Traditional Uses

Steaming sticky rice, typically after an overnight soak, producing the chewy, slightly translucent texture central to Lao and Isaan meals.

Modern Availability / Equivalents

Widely available through Lao and Thai kitchenware suppliers; a standard steamer basket can cook sticky rice with adaptation, though the specific conical shape and matching pot are considered important to achieving even, properly textured results.

Care & Maintenance

Air dry thoroughly after use to prevent mold given the bamboo's porosity.