Steaming Broccoli: Microwave Method For Perfectly Cooked Veggies

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, but steaming it in the microwave is one of the fastest and easiest methods. This technique is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy side dish without the hassle of using a stove or frying pan. The result is tender, crisp, and flavourful broccoli that can be seasoned to your liking.

Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets

To cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, start by removing the super-tough ends and any woody bits. You can cut them into larger chunks, but bite-sized pieces that are uniform in size work best as they cook quickly and evenly. Remember that the size of your broccoli florets will dictate the cooking time, and larger pieces will need to be cooked for longer.

If you want to eat the stalks, make sure to cut them smaller than bite-sized. You can trim the dry end and peel the stalk, then slice it into 1/4-inch slices.

It's best to wash the broccoli before cutting it. However, if you prefer to wash it after cutting, that won't make a difference to the outcome.

Place broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl

To cook long-stem broccoli in the microwave, you'll need to start by placing the broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl. It's important to ensure that the bowl is made from microwave-safe materials such as glass or ceramic. Avoid using plastic wrap or aluminium foil. The bowl should also have tall sides to trap the steam effectively.

Before placing the broccoli in the bowl, you'll need to cut it into uniform bite-sized florets. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly. You can also cut the stalks into smaller pieces if you want to eat them. Remove any tough ends and woody bits.

Once you have the broccoli florets and/or stalks ready, place them into the microwave-safe bowl. You can season the broccoli at this point, or wait until after it has been cooked.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of water

To cook long-stem broccoli in the microwave, you'll need to add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the broccoli in its microwave-safe bowl. This is an important step as it creates the steam that will cook your broccoli.

The amount of water you add will depend on the amount of broccoli you are cooking. For one pound of broccoli (about one head), add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water. If you are cooking 2 pounds of broccoli, you will need to increase the amount of water accordingly. You can also add more or less water depending on your preference and the texture you want to achieve.

After adding the water, cover the bowl tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Avoid using plastic wrap, especially if it is not microwave-safe. You can also skip the lid and plate altogether and simply cook the broccoli uncovered. However, this may affect the texture of the broccoli, as it will not be steamed.

Once the bowl is covered, place it in the microwave and cook on high power for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the power of your microwave and the texture you prefer. For tender yet slightly crispy broccoli, try cooking it for a shorter duration first and then adjust as needed.

After cooking, carefully remove the lid or plate, being mindful of the hot steam. Your long-stem broccoli is now ready to be served!

Cover the bowl with a plate or lid

Covering the bowl with a plate or lid is an important step in the process of steaming broccoli in the microwave. This step ensures that the steam generated from the water added to the bowl remains trapped inside, allowing the broccoli to cook thoroughly.

When choosing a plate or lid, it is important to use microwave-safe materials such as ceramic or stoneware. Avoid using plastic wrap, as it can be unsafe in the microwave. Additionally, make sure that the plate or lid fits snugly on top of the bowl, creating a tight seal to prevent steam from escaping.

The plate or lid should be placed upside down or right-side up on top of the bowl, ensuring that it lies flat against the bowl's opening. This will help to contain the steam effectively.

Once the broccoli is cooked, remember to exercise caution when removing the lid or plate. The steam will be very hot, and it can cause burns if not handled carefully. It is recommended to remove the lid or plate slowly and direct the steam away from your hands and face.

By following these instructions, you can effectively use a plate or lid to steam broccoli in the microwave, resulting in a quick, healthy, and tasty side dish.

Microwave on high for 2.5-4 minutes

Once you've chopped your broccoli into bite-sized pieces and placed it in a microwave-safe bowl with a few tablespoons of water, it's time to cook!

Cover the bowl with a plate or a lid and place it in the microwave. It's important to make sure that your bowl is microwave-safe, and that you avoid using plastic wrap or aluminium foil. You should also be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as the steam will be hot.

Now, it's time to cook your broccoli. Microwave the bowl on high for 2.5 to 4 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the power of your microwave and the size of your broccoli florets. If you're using a less powerful microwave, you may need to cook your broccoli for up to 5 minutes or longer. On the other hand, if your microwave is more powerful, you might only need to cook it for 3 minutes.

To check if your broccoli is done, carefully remove the lid or plate and take a look. You're aiming for tender, but still slightly crispy broccoli. If it's not quite ready, simply recover the bowl and put it back in the microwave for another 30 seconds to a minute.

Frequently asked questions