Cooking Broccoli In An Instant Pot: No Steamer Basket Needed

Broccoli is a nutrient-rich superfood that is best steamed to retain its health benefits. It is also one of the easiest and fastest things to cook in an Instant Pot. You can steam broccoli in an Instant Pot without a steamer basket by using the trivet that comes with it. Simply place the trivet in the Instant Pot, add water, and put the broccoli on top. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes, which is the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure. Once it beeps, do a quick release of the pressure and serve.

How to steam broccoli in an instant pot without a steamer basket

Steaming broccoli is one of the easiest things you can make in your instant pot. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it without a steamer basket.

Step 1: Prep the broccoli

Wash the broccoli under running water. Using a chef's knife, cut the broccoli head into medium-sized florets (about 1.5 inches). Try to cut the florets into equal sizes so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Add water and a trivet to the instant pot

Add about 3/4 cup of water to the bottom of the instant pot. Then, place the trivet that came with your instant pot inside. If you don't have a trivet, you can use a colander or any heat-proof dish to hold the broccoli above the water line. Place the broccoli on top.

Step 3: Pressure cook

Close the lid and set the instant pot to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes. Yes, you read that right! The broccoli will be perfectly steamed just in the time it takes for the pressure cooker to come to full pressure. If your instant pot doesn't have a "0" minute option, you can set it for 1 minute on low pressure instead.

Step 4: Quick-release the pressure

Once the instant pot reaches full pressure, press the quick-release valve immediately. This is important to prevent overcooking and mushy broccoli.

Step 5: Remove the broccoli and serve

Once the pressure has been released, remove the broccoli from the instant pot right away. Season with salt and pepper, or your desired seasonings, and enjoy!

How to prevent broccoli from becoming mushy

Broccoli is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. However, it is important not to overcook it, as this can result in a mushy, bland texture. Here are some tips to help you cook broccoli without making it mushy:

Choose the Right Cooking Method

Some cooking methods are less likely to result in mushy broccoli. Roasting, air-frying, blanching, sautéing, and steaming are all recommended methods that can help retain the broccoli's texture and flavour. Boiling, on the other hand, tends to make broccoli soggy and is generally not recommended.

Cut Broccoli into Evenly Sized Florets

When preparing broccoli, cut the head into medium-sized florets of roughly equal size. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly and helps prevent overcooking. Larger pieces may require slightly longer cooking times but will result in a less mushy texture.

Control Cooking Time and Don't Overcook

Broccoli only needs a short cooking time, usually between 4 to 6 minutes depending on the cooking method. Keep a close eye on the broccoli while cooking, and taste it frequently to check for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly crunchy. Remember that broccoli will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the heat, so it is better to undercook than overcook it.

Use a Small Amount of Water for Steaming

If you are steaming broccoli, use just enough water to create steam and prevent the broccoli from touching the water. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly and doesn't become waterlogged.

Quick Release Pressure After Cooking

When using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, it is important to do a quick release of the pressure as soon as the cooking time is up. This prevents the broccoli from sitting in the steam and continuing to cook, which can lead to overcooking and mushiness.

Season and Serve Immediately

After cooking, season the broccoli with salt, pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, or your favourite herbs and spices. Serve the broccoli immediately while it is still hot and crisp.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious, perfectly cooked broccoli without the mushiness.

How to season broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. While it can be enjoyed raw, steamed broccoli is the next best option, as it retains more nutrients than boiling or overcooking.

Lemon-Herb Seasoning

For a refreshing flavour, mix a tablespoon of olive oil, two teaspoons of lemon juice, a quarter teaspoon of garlic salt, and a quarter teaspoon of thyme. Add some freshly ground black pepper to taste, pour over the broccoli, and toss to mix.

Lemon-Garlic Seasoning

For a zesty flavour, mix a chopped garlic clove, one and a half tablespoons of olive oil, and one and a half teaspoons of lemon juice. Heat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until the garlic is soft and fragrant, then pour over the broccoli and toss to coat.

Sesame Oil and Toasted Sesame Seeds

For a milder flavour, cut the broccoli into florets, steam, and drizzle with sesame oil. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, and garnish with thinly sliced scallions.

Simple Seasonings

For a basic kick of flavour, choose one or two seasonings from the following list and add them to your cooked broccoli:

• Fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, or thyme
• Chopped, sliced, or minced garlic
• Lemon juice, lemon zest, or lemon slices

Oven-Roasted Broccoli

Preheat the oven to 425°F (219°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet and spread broccoli florets over it. Add olive oil, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat, then bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Garnish with lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese.

Garam Masala and Shredded Coconut

Toss broccoli florets with garam masala and shredded coconut, then roast in the oven.

Pesto

Toss broccoli florets with pesto sauce, spread on a baking sheet, and bake.

Fish Sauce, Lime Juice, and Brown Sugar

Combine fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar, and pour over roasted broccoli florets. Toss to coat.

Parmesan Cheese and Red Pepper Flakes

Toss broccoli florets with dried bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then roast in the oven.

Lemon Juice, Honey, and Chilli Flakes

Whisk together lemon juice, honey, and chilli flakes, and toss with broccoli florets. Sauté until the broccoli turns bright green and crisp.

Olive Oil, Garlic, and Red Pepper Flakes

Heat olive oil in a sauté pan and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook broccoli florets for a few minutes, then add a splash of water, soy sauce, or chicken stock, cover, and steam.

Parmesan Cheese and Brown Sugar

Mix grated Parmesan cheese and brown sugar, then dust over blanched broccoli florets that have been tossed in olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Light Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce

Cook broccoli florets in water and vegetable oil, then add a sauce made from water, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.

Black Pepper and Grated Parmesan Cheese

Sauté broccoli florets in olive oil with salt and pepper, then reduce the heat and cook for 20 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and toss with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Raw Broccoli with Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

Toss raw broccoli florets with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, using three parts olive oil to one part lemon juice.

Mustard, Vinegar, and Olive Oil

Stir together seeded mustard, rice wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss with broccoli florets. To make a salad, add feta cheese and pine nuts.

Yogurt Dip

Mix low-fat Greek yogurt with paprika, chives, and minced garlic, and use as a dip for raw broccoli florets.

Mayonnaise and Milk

Dilute mayonnaise with milk, pour over broccoli florets, and toss to combine. Add crumbled bacon and cashew nuts to make a salad.

How to store and reheat broccoli

Storing cooked broccoli in the fridge, in an airtight container, will keep it fresh for 3 to 5 days.

To reheat broccoli, it's best to avoid a microwave as this can make the broccoli soggy. Instead, try using a pan, an oven, an air fryer, or a grill.

Reheating Broccoli in a Pan

Place the broccoli in a pan with a little olive oil and toss for 2-3 minutes. Add a teaspoon of lemon juice and serve.

Reheating Broccoli in an Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the broccoli into florets and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes.

Reheating Broccoli in an Air Fryer

Air fryers are a healthy way to reheat food without losing any nutrition. Reheat the broccoli for 2-3 minutes.

Reheating Broccoli on a Grill

Grilling broccoli will add a smoky flavor. Add a few drops of lemon juice and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings.

The health benefits of broccoli

Packed With Vitamins, Minerals, and Bioactive Compounds

Broccoli contains a wide array of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other bioactive compounds. A cup of raw broccoli packs 135% of the RDI of vitamin C, 11% of the RDI of vitamin A, 116% of the RDI of vitamin K, 14% of the RDI of vitamin B9 (folate), 8% of the RDI of potassium, 6% of the RDI of phosphorus, and 3% of the RDI of selenium.

Contains Potent Antioxidants

The antioxidant content of broccoli may be one of its main boons for human health. Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit or neutralize cell damage caused by free radicals, leading to reduced inflammation and an overall health-protective effect. Broccoli has high levels of glucoraphanin, a compound that is converted into the potent antioxidant sulforaphane during digestion.

May Protect Against Certain Types of Cancer

Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, contain various bioactive compounds that may reduce cell damage caused by certain chronic diseases. Multiple small studies have shown that eating cruciferous vegetables may protect against certain types of cancer, including breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, and gastric cancer.

May Support Heart Health

Several studies indicate that broccoli may support heart health. Broccoli may play a role in improving "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, the fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in broccoli may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

May Help Slow the Aging Process

Sulforaphane, a key bioactive compound in broccoli, may have the capacity to slow the biochemical process of aging by increasing the expression of antioxidant genes.

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