The most frequent and classic way on how to steam broccoli is with a quality broccoli steamer. Steaming broccoli this way is super simple and can be done in just a couple of minutes. To steam broccoli, you will need a pot of water and a steamer pot.
Wash Your Broccoli
Always start cooking with fresh, clean produce. You must always remove any toxins, dirt, and debris that may encounter your food before it makes its way to your kitchen.
Boiling Water
Fill your pot with about 2-inches of water and a pinch of salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Make sure you are using a pan big enough to place the steamer above it without letting it dip into the water.
Add the Broccoli
Then place the broccoli or steamed broccoli florets into your steamer basket. Then, wait until your broccoli is cooked to the point you prefer.
How Long Do You Steam Broccoli?
How long you steam broccoli will depend on how you like your broccoli texture and taste.
When you are steamed broccoli in a steamer, you will want to let the vegetable sit in the pot for around 7-8 minutes, with a lid over the basket, for a very tender, soft piece. The flavor may be a little milder due to the extending time of steaming.
If you prefer your broccoli with a bit of a crunch, only steam for about 3-4 minutes tops. It will soften the inside of the food while still giving you that snap when you bite through the stem. It will also preserve some of the natural flavors, giving you a more robust taste.
Microwave Steamed Broccoli
While microwaves allow you to cook your broccoli quicker and easier with less clean-up, it is not the best way to accomplish this. Doing this will often make the broccoli cook unevenly.
Nonetheless, just because it is difficult doesn’t mean it isn’t possible. If you are interested in microwaving your florets, here is how to do it.
- Start with washing your broccoli and leaving it soaked
- Place the pieces into a microwave-safe bowl still wet
- Add a tablespoon or two of water into the bowl
- Place a microwave-safe lid onto the bowl
- Microwave on high for about 60 sec.
- If the broccoli is not tender enough, put it back in for another 30 sec. (you may have to do this a few different times until the broccoli is cooked to your liking.)
Remember to remove the lid away from your face; the steam will be extremely hot once released from the container.
How to Steam Broccoli Without a Steamer
The most common way of creating steamed broccoli without a steamer is by boiling a pot of water, adding your pieces, and covering.
Allow the broccoli to steam for about 8-minutes for it to be completely softened or 4-minutes for a little crunch.
You can add a small pinch or two of sea salt to add a little extra taste if you want.
How Long Does It Take to Steam Broccoli?
Steamed broccoli doesn’t take that long at all. It is one of the quickest and easiest ways to prepare a healthy delicious dish. For the most part, all options should only take you no more than 10 minutes for a perfectly prepared batch of broccoli.
How Else Can You Prepare Broccoli?
Those who genuinely love their broccoli probably already know it isn’t only delicious when steamed. There are many ways you can prepare and eat this vegetable, giving yourself a nutritious treat as well as keeping your stomach full.
Try it Raw
You can always enjoy your broccoli in its most natural form. Try buying a fresh bunch of broccoli, washing it off, cutting it up, and eating it Au Naturale. Broccoli tastes fantastic on its own or paired with a vegetable dip.
Try it Sauteed
Another delicious way to cook up with produce is by sautéing it in some olive oil on your stovetop.
You can do this by first placing the pan on the stove at medium heat, with a bit of olive oil evenly spread across the bottom, then adding some herbs and spices such as garlic and pepper flakes.
After heating up for about a minute, add your broccoli pieces to the mix, frequently stirring for roughly three minutes or so.
Try it Roasted
If you are interested in roasting your broccoli, all you have to do is pre-heat your oven to 400°F, cover your broccoli pieces in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and pepper, and toss it in for about 15 minutes.
Keep a close on it while it is cooking; this mixture can burn pretty quickly.
Best Broccoli Steamers
Best overall- OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Steamer
Best Budget-Friendly- Sayfine Vegetable Steamer Basket
Best Runner Up- Tafura Microwave Vegetable Steamer
Best Under $10- Collapsible Vegetable Steamer Basket
Broccoli Steamer FAQ’s
What is the Best Type of Steamer?
The best steamers are usually the ones made from quality stainless steel. Always make sure the steamer fits nicely into whichever pot you are using, giving it a chance to cook all the broccoli evenly.
You can also consider using a multi-purpose cooker when steaming any type of vegetable. The most popular steamer is the Instant Pot. It steams foods to perfection, is easy to use, and comes with a variety of recipes.
Are Microwave Streamers Safe to Use?
If you are using a BPA-free, microwave-safe container, you can safely steam your broccoli in the microwave. Always use products made for this purpose and never try to rig up your system. (Doing this can lead to a mess or injuries)
Are Bamboo Steamers Worth the Money?
Sure, bamboo steamers are used similarly to a regular stainless-steel product and will cook your broccoli to perfection.
Summing Things Up
Steamed broccoli not only tastes good, but it is good for you. Having the ability to cook your broccoli this way will give you all the reasons you need to eat your vegetables. (even without the advice of your doctor.)
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