Steaming Broccoli Perfection: Microwave Style

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can accompany many dishes, and steaming it in the microwave is a quick and easy way to cook it. Here is a simple guide on how to cook broccoli in a microwave steamer.

Preparing the broccoli

First, you'll need to cut up the broccoli into bite-sized florets. If you want to eat the stalks, make sure to cut them smaller than bite-sized and remove any woody bits so that everything cooks evenly.

Next, place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl or dish and add some water. The amount of water you need will depend on how much broccoli you're cooking. A good rule of thumb is to use 2-4 tablespoons of water for every pound of broccoli.

Once you've added the water, cover the bowl tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Avoid using plastic wrap or an airtight lid, as the steam building up can become dangerous. If you're using plastic cling film, it's a good idea to leave a small vent spot for the steam to escape.

Now, you're ready to microwave your broccoli. Cook it on high power for 2.5-4 minutes, depending on your microwave's strength and how tender you like your broccoli. If you're not sure how long to cook it for, start with 2.5 minutes and then check it. If it's not done yet, just cover it again and put it back in the microwave in 1-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.

Finally, remove the lid carefully, being mindful of the hot steam, and drain off any excess water. Your broccoli is now ready to be seasoned and served!

Choosing a microwave-safe bowl

When choosing a microwave-safe bowl for steaming broccoli, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the bowl is indeed microwave-safe. Look for a microwave-safe symbol or label on the bottom or back of the bowl. If you are unsure, you can test the bowl by placing a cup of water inside and microwaving it for one minute. If the bowl becomes hot but the water stays cool, avoid using it in the microwave. If the water heats up but the bowl is only mildly warm, it is likely safe to use.

It is recommended to use a ceramic bowl for steaming broccoli in the microwave. Glass bowls are also a good option and are typically microwave-safe. You can also use specially-made microwave cookware, but avoid using plastic or metal unless they are specifically labelled as microwave-safe.

The size of the bowl is another important factor. Choose a bowl that is large enough to accommodate the amount of broccoli you plan to cook. The broccoli should fit comfortably in the bowl without overcrowding. Make sure there is enough space for the steam to circulate and cook the broccoli evenly.

Additionally, consider the depth of the bowl. A deeper bowl may be more suitable for steaming, as it will help contain the steam and ensure even cooking. However, make sure the bowl is not too narrow, as you want to be able to stir the broccoli easily without it spilling over the sides.

When preparing the bowl for steaming, add 2-4 tablespoons of water, depending on the amount of broccoli you are cooking. Cover the bowl tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plate, avoiding the use of plastic wrap if possible. Microwave-safe plastic wrap can be used, but ensure that you poke holes in it for ventilation.

By choosing the right microwave-safe bowl and following these simple preparation steps, you'll be well on your way to perfectly steamed broccoli.

Adding water

When cooking, it's important not to use an airtight lid, as the steam build-up can become dangerous. Instead, cover your microwave-safe bowl with a plate or a vented lid. Avoid using plastic wrap if possible, and if you do use it, be sure to leave a small 'vent' spot for the steam to escape.

After adding the water and covering the bowl, you'll want to microwave the broccoli on high power for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes. Check the broccoli after 2 1/2 minutes to see if it's done to your liking. If not, re-cover and continue cooking in 30-second to one-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.

Once the broccoli is cooked, carefully remove the lid, as the steam will be hot. Drain off any excess water, and your broccoli is now ready to be served or seasoned as desired.

Covering the bowl

When covering the bowl, it is important to ensure that the lid or plate is microwave-safe. Using plastic wrap or cling film is not recommended as it can melt or release harmful chemicals during the cooking process. A ceramic or stoneware plate is a good option to cover the bowl. If using plastic cling film, it is advisable to leave a small 'vent' spot for the steam to escape.

The lid or plate should fit snugly on top of the bowl to prevent steam from escaping. This will help to ensure that the broccoli is cooked evenly and efficiently. It is also important to note that the bowl should be microwave-safe as well.

Additionally, it is crucial to be cautious when removing the lid or plate after cooking. The steam that has built up inside the bowl will be very hot and can cause burns if not handled carefully. Hold the lid or plate away from your body and face when removing it, and be sure to use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands from the hot steam.

By following these instructions for covering the bowl when cooking broccoli in a microwave steamer, you can ensure that your broccoli is cooked properly while also maintaining safety in the kitchen.

Cooking time

The cooking time for microwave-steamed broccoli depends on the texture you want to achieve. If you prefer your broccoli to be tender-crisp, steam it for about 4 minutes. For a softer texture, steam for up to 5 minutes.

To check if your broccoli is done, insert a fork into a floret. If the fork goes in easily and the broccoli is tender, it's ready to serve. If you prefer firmer broccoli, you can steam it for less time, and for softer broccoli, you can steam for a little longer.

It's important to note that microwave ovens vary, so it's better to undercook the broccoli slightly and then add more time if needed. Start by checking after 2.5 to 4 minutes, and then add 30-60 seconds at a time if it's not yet tender.

Additionally, the cooking time can be influenced by the amount of water added to the bowl. Using boiling water will speed up the cooking process, while using cold water will increase the cooking time.

Frequently asked questions