Top 5 Sticky Rice Steamer Baskets for Perfect Thai Rice

If you’ve ever tried Thai sticky rice at a restaurant and wondered how they get it so perfectly fluffy and aromatic, the secret lies in a humble but essential tool: the sticky rice steamer basket. Unlike regular steamers or rice cookers, this traditional method gives the rice its signature texture and taste—light, chewy, and slightly nutty. For those who love to cook authentic Thai or Laotian dishes at home, investing in a bamboo sticky rice basket is a game changer.

To help you find the right one, we’ve rounded up the top 5 sticky rice steamer baskets that are perfect for making delicious Thai sticky rice at home.

1. CCcollections: Traditional Thai Sticky Rice Steamer Basket Set

This set is perfect for beginners who want the full experience. It includes a classic bamboo sticky rice basket along with an aluminium steaming pot. The basket is handwoven from natural bamboo, allowing steam to circulate evenly and prevent sogginess. The pot is lightweight, durable, and fits the basket snugly—so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off.

Why we love it:

Comes as a complete set

Handwoven bamboo for even steaming

Easy to use and clean

Ideal for: First-timers or anyone looking for a simple, all-in-one solution.

2. IMEEA Bamboo Sticky Rice Steamer Basket (Basket Only)

Already have a pot and just need the basket? The IMEEA basket is beautifully crafted and perfect for those who want to upgrade their current setup. It's designed to fit most standard aluminium steaming pots. With its durable construction and traditional look, it brings an authentic Thai touch to any kitchen.

Why we love it:

Affordable and well-made

Fits most steaming pots

Great for replacing old baskets

Ideal for: Home cooks who already have a steaming pot or want to customise their setup.

3. Humble Market Thai Sticky Rice Cooking Set

For those looking for something eco-friendly, this set includes a sustainably sourced bamboo sticky rice basket and a stainless-steel pot instead of the usual aluminium. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality and durability make it worth the investment. Plus, it looks lovely displayed on a kitchen shelf!

Why we love it:

Eco-conscious materials

Elegant stainless-steel pot

Durable and reusable

Ideal for: Eco-minded cooks or as a beautiful gift set for food lovers.

4. KALAMATA Thai Sticky Rice Basket with Lid

This option includes a sticky rice steamer basket that doubles as a serving basket. Once the rice is steamed, it can be placed into the basket with a lid to keep it warm and fresh. It's a traditional Laotian style, often seen in street food markets, and ideal for table presentation.

Why we love it:

Dual-use: steamer and serving basket

Comes with a lid to retain heat

Traditional design for authentic presentation

Ideal for: Those who love to entertain or serve food in traditional style.

5. Asian Home Gourmet Bamboo Sticky Rice Basket & Pot Set

A favourite among seasoned home chefs, this set is designed for high performance and long-term use. The bamboo sticky rice basket is sturdier than most, and the pot is made from heavy-duty aluminium for faster and more efficient steaming. It also comes with a detailed instruction leaflet, which is great if you’re still learning the technique.

Why we love it:

Built to last

Great for frequent use

Comes with user guide

Ideal for: Experienced cooks or frequent sticky rice makers.

Tips for Using a Sticky Rice Steamer Basket

To get the best results with your sticky rice steamer basket, follow these quick tips:

Soak the rice first: Thai sticky rice (also called glutinous rice) should be soaked for 6–8 hours or overnight before steaming.

Line the basket: Use cheesecloth or a muslin cloth inside the bamboo basket to prevent rice from sticking and falling through the gaps.

Steam over boiling water: Make sure the water in the pot doesn't touch the bottom of the basket—you're steaming, not boiling!

Flip the rice halfway: After about 15–20 minutes, gently turn the rice over for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

A high-quality sticky rice steamer basket is more than just a cooking tool—it’s a bridge to Southeast Asian culinary tradition. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your technique, investing in a well-made bamboo sticky rice basket makes all the difference in your rice game. The texture, flavour, and aroma of properly steamed sticky rice simply can’t be beat.

So pick the one that suits your style, and get ready to impress your taste buds—Thai style.