Steaming Broccoli: Black+Decker Rice Cooker Method

Steaming broccoli in a rice cooker is an easy and convenient way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. While rice cookers are primarily used for cooking rice, they can also be used for steaming vegetables, such as broccoli, with minimal effort and maximum results. This method ensures even cooking, retaining the broccoli's vibrant colour, crisp texture, and natural goodness. The Black & Decker rice cooker, in particular, offers a versatile way to cook rice and steam vegetables with its steaming function or rack/basket accessory.

Preparing the broccoli

Once cleaned, cut the broccoli into florets. These are the tree-like parts of the broccoli. Don't throw away the stems, though, as they are full of flavour and nutrients. Cut each floret into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating and more even cooking.

You can now place the broccoli into the rice cooker. Depending on the model of your Black and Decker rice cooker, you may have a steaming rack or steamer basket. If you have a rack, arrange the broccoli slices on it, ensuring the broccoli is above the water level. If you have a steamer basket, you can use this as a colander to rinse the broccoli florets before placing them in the rice cooker.

Steaming the broccoli

Firstly, make sure your broccoli is clean. Rinse the broccoli under running water to remove any dirt or residue.

Once cleaned, cut the broccoli into florets. These are the tree-like parts of the vegetable. Don't throw away the stems, though, as they are full of flavour and nutrients. Cut each floret into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating and more even cooking.

Now, add water to the cooking pot of the rice cooker. You will need about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of water to create enough steam to cook the broccoli without making it soggy. If you are using a Black & Decker rice cooker, the manual recommends using 1 1/2 to 2 cups of water, stock, or vegetable broth.

Place the broccoli florets in the rice cooker's steaming rack or basket. This is designed to hold the broccoli above the water level, allowing it to cook in the steam. Stack the broccoli on the rack until the rice cooker is about 2/3 full.

Close the lid securely, turn on the rice cooker, and set the timer. The average steaming time is about 5 minutes, which will give you broccoli that is crisp and tender.

Once the timer goes off, turn off the rice cooker and unplug it. Leaving the rice cooker on a 'warm' setting will continue to cook the broccoli, which we want to avoid to maintain that perfect crisp tenderness.

Serving the broccoli

Once your broccoli is steamed to perfection, it's time to serve it! Here are some tips and ideas for serving your freshly steamed broccoli:

• Use it immediately: Steamed broccoli is best enjoyed fresh! You can serve it as a simple steamed side dish or add it to a salad for a crunchy and nutritious boost.
• Season it up: A sprinkle of salt and pepper can enhance the flavour of your broccoli. Don't be afraid to experiment with other seasonings like lemon juice, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Drizzle with toppings: For a more indulgent treat, drizzle your broccoli with low-fat ranch dressing, melted butter, or soy sauce. You can also add some grated cheese while the broccoli is still hot so that it melts and creates a creamy texture.
• Pair with protein: Steamed broccoli pairs well with various proteins. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or sprinkling on some crumbled feta cheese for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
• Salad addition: Chop up your steamed broccoli and toss it into a salad. Add other vegetables, a light sauce, and maybe some grilled chicken for a hearty and healthy meal.
• Freeze for later: If you have leftover broccoli, you can freeze it to prolong its life. Spread the florets on a baking sheet, flash freeze them, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 12 months.

Storing the broccoli

Storing Steamed Broccoli:

Allow the broccoli to cool completely before storing it. Place the broccoli florets in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked broccoli will keep well for 3 to 5 days.

Reheating Steamed Broccoli:

If you're short on time, simply put the broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl, add a tablespoon of water, cover it, and microwave for about a minute or until heated through. Alternatively, for a more gradual reheating process, use a stovetop. Place the broccoli in a pot, add an inch of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the broccoli steam until hot.

Freezing Steamed Broccoli:

While cooked broccoli can be frozen, it's important to note that it may not retain its crisp texture and is prone to becoming mushy. If you still wish to freeze it, blanch the broccoli first to preserve its nutrients and colour. Cut the broccoli into florets, boil for 3 minutes or until soft, then transfer to an ice water bath. Drain the broccoli, arrange it on a sheet pan, and freeze until solid before transferring to a labelled freezer bag.

Storing Raw Broccoli:

When storing raw broccoli, it's best to keep it in the refrigerator, loosely wrapped, or in a perforated plastic bag to allow for air circulation. Do not wash the broccoli before storing, as excess moisture may promote mould growth. Raw broccoli should be consumed within 3 to 5 days.

Tips for the best steamed broccoli

Preparation

Before steaming, ensure your broccoli is clean by rinsing it under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut the broccoli into florets, keeping the bite-sized pieces separate if you plan on serving the broccoli immediately after steaming. You can also slice the florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure more even cooking.

Steaming

Add water to the cooking pot of your rice cooker. The amount of water required will depend on the cooker, but generally, you will need around 1/4 to 2 cups of water. Place the broccoli florets in the steamer basket or on a steaming rack, ensuring they are above the water level. Close the lid and turn on the rice cooker. The steaming time will depend on your cooker, but it should take around 3-5 minutes for the broccoli to reach a crisp, tender texture.

Serving

Once the broccoli is steamed, season it with salt, pepper, lemon juice, or a drizzle of low-fat ranch dressing. For cheese lovers, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or melted butter on top. You can also add some soy sauce for an umami flavour.

Storage

If you have leftover steamed broccoli, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container and storing it in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, you can either microwave it for about a minute or steam it on the stovetop until hot.

Frequently asked questions