Air-Fried Broccoli: A Healthy, Quick-Cooking Method

Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that is loaded with fiber, iron, folate, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. It can be cooked in an air fryer in under 10 minutes. The air fryer method is a quick and easy way to prepare broccoli, resulting in a delicious vegetable side dish with crispy edges and a tender texture. To cook broccoli in an air fryer, cut the broccoli into florets, season with olive oil and spices, and air fry for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispness.

How to season broccoli for the air fryer

When seasoning broccoli for the air fryer, you can use a variety of seasonings to add flavour. A simple combination of garlic, salt, and black pepper can be used, or you can add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. If you want to add a cheesy flavour, you can add grated parmesan cheese or shredded cheese. You can also add liquids such as olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or sweet teriyaki sauce.

It is important to note that the size of the broccoli florets can impact the cooking time and evenness of cooking. Smaller florets may cook faster but can also result in burned tips and undercooked stalks. Larger florets may need more time to crisp up but can result in more even cooking. To ensure even cooking and nicely roasted edges, it is recommended to cut or tear the broccoli into roughly even-sized, very small pieces.

To season the broccoli, you can toss the florets with the desired seasonings and liquids in a large mixing bowl until they are well-coated. Make sure that all parts of the broccoli are coated and that there are no dry areas. You can also add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket before cooking to prevent burning and smoking.

After seasoning the broccoli, you can arrange the florets in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cooking in batches may be necessary if you have a large quantity of broccoli. Set the air fryer temperature between 390°F and 400°F and cook for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket to ensure even cooking on all sides.

The best temperature to cook broccoli in an air fryer

Broccoli is a terrific side dish that is easy to make in an air fryer and packed with nutrients. The best temperature to cook broccoli in an air fryer is between 350°F and 400°F (180°C and 200°C) for 7 to 10 minutes.

First, cut the broccoli into florets, leaving the stems aside for another use, such as making broccoli rice. Then, toss the florets in a bowl with olive oil, tamari, and garlic powder or minced garlic. You can also season with salt and pepper. Make sure the broccoli is well-coated to achieve tender stalks and crispy tops.

Next, transfer the broccoli to the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between the florets to allow air to flow around them. If your basket is too crowded, the broccoli will steam and soften instead of crisping up. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the broccoli in batches.

Finally, set the air fryer temperature between 350°F and 400°F (180°C and 200°C) and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. If you prefer softer broccoli, add 1 tablespoon of water to the air fryer basket before cooking.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked, crispy-tender broccoli as a side dish or add it to grain bowls or noodle bowls.

How to stop broccoli from getting mushy in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook broccoli in an air fryer. Here are some tips to prevent it from getting mushy:

Firstly, ensure you are using fresh broccoli. Frozen broccoli has a higher moisture content, and while it can be air-fried, it will not get as crispy. If you are using frozen broccoli, do not thaw it before air-frying, as this will result in super soft florets that won't crisp up easily.

Secondly, cut your broccoli into large, evenly-sized florets. Smaller florets may burn before the stalk is fully tender. You want to give the bigger florets enough time to crisp up on top, so they cook more evenly in the air fryer.

Thirdly, ensure the broccoli is well-coated with oil. Use your hands to work the oil into the tops of the florets so that no part of the broccoli is dry. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Finally, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. If your basket is too crowded, the broccoli will steam and soften instead of crisping up. Arrange the broccoli in a single layer with some space between each floret. If your florets don't all fit in one layer, cook in two batches.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your broccoli comes out crispy and tender, rather than mushy, when cooked in an air fryer.

How to reheat cooked air fryer broccoli

Yes, you can cook broccoli in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to make a tasty, healthy side dish in under 10 minutes. But what if you've cooked too much? How do you reheat the leftovers? Well, it's simple.

Firstly, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to around 350°F. While it's heating up, take your leftover broccoli out of the fridge and let it come up to room temperature. This should only take a few minutes.

Next, place the broccoli in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's in a single layer with a little space between each floret. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook in batches.

Now, you can air fry the broccoli for 3-5 minutes at 350°F. If you want to add a little extra crispiness, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. And that's it! Your leftover broccoli will be as tasty as it was the first time around.

Of course, if you don't want to use your air fryer, you can always reheat the broccoli in the microwave. Simply place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 30 seconds or so until warmed through.

How to prevent air fryer broccoli from smoking

Yes, you can cook broccoli in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to make a tasty and nutritious side dish. However, if your air fryer has ever set off the smoke alarm, you're not alone. Here are some tips to prevent your air fryer broccoli from smoking:

Choose the Right Oil

The secret to smoke-free air frying is to use an oil with a high smoke point. Refined oils typically have higher smoke points than unrefined ones, which is why extra virgin olive oil is not suitable for frying. Instead, consider using avocado oil, refined light olive oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil. Each oil has different smoke points and flavours, so feel free to experiment!

Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding the air fryer basket can prevent hot air from circulating properly, leading to uneven cooking and soggy broccoli. It's best to cook in batches if you have a large amount of broccoli. Make sure to leave some space between the florets and arrange them in a single layer.

Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature

Keep an eye on your broccoli to prevent burning. Different air fryers may have slight variations in cooking time and temperature. Start with the recommended time and temperature, but don't hesitate to adjust as needed based on your desired level of crispiness.

Clean Your Air Fryer

A smoke-filled kitchen might be a sign that your air fryer needs a deep clean. Grease and food residue can drip down onto the heating element and cause smoking. Make sure to clean your air fryer regularly, especially if it's greasy inside.

Use Water or Bread

If your air fryer starts smoking, you can place a couple of tablespoons of water in the bottom of the appliance to end the smoking. The water will quickly convert to steam and prevent greasy food from causing more smoke. Alternatively, you can place a slice of bread in the bottom of the air fryer to absorb any grease that drips down.

Frequently asked questions