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Intro
Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables in the world. It is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and has anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. To maximize the nutrition of broccoli and get the best flavor, steaming is absolutely the best cooking method you can use. In this article, we will teach you how to correctly steam broccoli, how long to steam it, along with why steaming broccoli belongs in everyone's healthy kitchen repertoire.
Why Steaming Broccoli is Optimal
Steaming broccoli retains more nutrients than frying or boiling. Steaming uses heat but keeps the integrity of the vegetable, while boiling causes vitamins to leach into the water. Steamed broccoli has an amazing green color, a delicately tender texture, and can be added to salads, pastas, stir-fries or simply enjoyed as a side with other delicious dishes.
What You Need:
Fresh broccoli (1 large head or pre-cut florets)
A pot with a lid
A steamer basket (or heat-safe colander)
Water
Salt (optional)
How to Steam Broccoli:
Wash and cut: Rinse the broccoli in cold water, and cut off the thick stalk. Break apart the florets and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Boil water: Pour about 1 inch of water into the saucepan with the steamer basket inside. Bring the water to a boil.
Add broccoli: Once water is boiling, put the broccoli in the steamer basket (Do not allow the broccoli florets to touch the water).
Cover and steam: Cover the pot with the lid and steam the broccoli.
⏱️ How Long to steam broccoli?
Fresh: 5 to 7 minutes
Frozen: 6 to 8 minutes
Test for tender with a fork — but do not over cook.
Tips for Perfectly Steamed Broccoli
Do not over steam broccoli or it will begin to turn yellow and will be really soggy.
Add just a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon after steaming to give it some flavor.
Eat it immediately, or shock it in some cold water so the cooking process stops if you are prepping ahead of time.
Health Benefits of Steamed Broccoli
High in vitamin C - helps boost immunity
High fiber - aids digestion and weight loss
Contains sulforaphane - = powerful compound that is known to reduce cancer risk
Low calorie density - food is great for heart and weight health
Ways to serve:
As a side to grilled chicken or fish
Tossed in olive oil and garlic
Mixed in pasta or rice bowls
In soup or stir-fries that are healthy
Conclusion
Learning how to steam broccoli is an easy skill in the kitchen, it's so good for you. With some water, a pot and three minutes, you can have a nutritious, healthy tasty vegetable dish. It's one of the best ways to eat green and feel great.
