Steaming Broccoli: Using The Pampered Chef Micro Cooker

The Pampered Chef Micro Cooker is a versatile kitchen tool designed for steaming vegetables in the microwave. It consists of a pot with a vented lid, which allows steam to escape while retaining moisture. This design ensures that your vegetables are cooked evenly and retain their colour, flavour, and nutrients. The Micro Cooker is available in different sizes, including 1-qt. (1-L), 2-qt. (2-L), and 3-qt. (3-L), and can be used to steam a wide range of vegetables, including broccoli. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to steam broccoli using the Pampered Chef Micro Cooker:

Step 1: Wash and cut the broccoli into uniform pieces.

Step 2: Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the Micro Cooker.

Step 3: Place the broccoli in the Micro Cooker, ensuring it's not overcrowded.

Step 4: Cover the cooker with the vented lid, aligning the venting holes appropriately.

Step 5: Microwave for 3-4 minutes, depending on the desired tenderness.

Step 6: Remove the broccoli from the microwave, season, and serve.

How to prepare broccoli for steaming

Preparing broccoli for steaming is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Wash and Cut the Broccoli

Begin by thoroughly washing your broccoli to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Micro Cooker

Pour approximately 2-3 tablespoons of water into the bottom of the Pampered Chef Micro Cooker. The water will create steam, helping to cook the broccoli.

Step 3: Place the Broccoli in the Cooker

Arrange the broccoli florets in the Micro Cooker on top of the water. Avoid overcrowding the cooker to allow for even steaming. For best results, try to arrange the broccoli in a single layer.

Step 4: Cover with the Vented Lid

Secure the vented lid on the Micro Cooker, ensuring the venting holes are aligned to allow steam to escape while preventing liquid buildup on the lid.

Step 5: Microwave

Place the Micro Cooker in the microwave, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. The cooking time may vary depending on the amount of broccoli and the microwave's wattage.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Once cooked, remove the lid and season with salt, pepper, olive oil, or your favourite herbs and spices. Enjoy your perfectly steamed broccoli!

How much water to add to the Micro Cooker

When steaming broccoli in the Pampered Chef Micro-Cooker, you have the option to add water or not. Some recipes suggest adding 1 inch of water to the Micro-Cooker, while others recommend adding just a few tablespoons of water for every cup of fresh broccoli. If you are using frozen broccoli, follow the package instructions.

If you choose to omit the water, be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plate. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your broccoli florets and the desired tenderness, but it should take around 3 minutes for fresh broccoli and 2-5 minutes for frozen.

It is important to note that the size of the Micro-Cooker will also affect the amount of water added. The Micro-Cookers come in 1-qt. (1-L), 2-qt. (2-L), and 3-qt (3-L) sizes. Adjust the amount of water accordingly, using less water for smaller cookers and more water for larger ones.

How long to steam broccoli for

The time it takes to steam broccoli in a Pampered Chef Micro-Cooker® depends on the quantity of broccoli, the size of the Micro-Cooker, and the desired tenderness. Here is a detailed guide on how long to steam broccoli for using this product:

Firstly, it is important to prepare your broccoli by washing it and cutting it into uniform pieces. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly. You can cut the broccoli into florets or bite-sized pieces.

Next, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the Micro-Cooker. This water will create steam, helping to soften the broccoli during the cooking process.

Then, place the broccoli in the Micro-Cooker on top of the water. It is important not to overcrowd the cooker, as this will prevent steam from circulating effectively. Try to arrange the broccoli in a single layer for maximum effect.

Now, it's time to cover the Micro-Cooker with its vented lid. Ensure that the venting holes are aligned correctly to allow steam to escape while preventing liquid from accumulating on the lid.

Place the Micro-Cooker in the microwave, and refer to the cooking chart that comes with the product for specific cooking times based on the quantity and type of vegetable. As a general guideline, most vegetables take between 3 to 8 minutes to steam in the microwave.

For a 1.5-quart dish that is pretty much full of broccoli, steaming for 3 minutes on high in the microwave should be sufficient. If you are cooking a smaller quantity, such as a single serving (about a cup of chopped broccoli), reduce the cooking time to 1 to 2 minutes.

Check the broccoli's tenderness after the specified time, and return it to the microwave for an additional minute or two if needed.

Finally, remove the broccoli from the microwave, season with salt, pepper, olive oil, cheese sauce, or your desired seasonings, and enjoy!

Seasoning options

The seasoning options for steamed broccoli are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Salt and pepper: This classic combination adds a touch of savouriness and heat to your broccoli.
• Olive oil : Drizzling olive oil over your steamed broccoli can add a rich, fruity flavour and a smooth texture.
• Cheese sauce: For a more indulgent option, try pouring a creamy cheese sauce over your broccoli.
• Garlic salt and lemon: A zesty, tangy combination that will brighten up your broccoli.
• Herbs and spices: Experiment with your favourite herbs and spices to find a combination that you love. Some popular options include dill, basil, parsley, or cilantro.
• Butter: Adding a pat of butter to your steamed broccoli can make it extra rich and decadent.
• Salt, milk, garlic, Greek yoghurt, cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon: These ingredients can be added to your broccoli to make loaded broccoli similar to loaded mashed potatoes.

How to store leftover broccoli

To store leftover broccoli, you'll need to act fast. Broccoli is a highly perishable product and does not keep for long. If left at room temperature, bacteria can rapidly grow, so it should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours.

For cooked broccoli, cover it with aluminium foil or plastic wrap, ensuring it is as airtight as possible, and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will then last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. To extend its shelf life, freeze it in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Fresh broccoli should be wrapped loosely in a damp paper towel, rather than a sealed container or plastic bag, as it needs good air circulation to stay fresh. It should be stored in the refrigerator and will last for about 4-5 days.

Frequently asked questions