Steaming Broccoli: Using A Pressure Cooker The Right Way

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, while being low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. It is also incredibly easy to steam in a pressure cooker and can be ready in less than 15 minutes. This article will cover everything you need to know about how to steam broccoli in a pressure cooker, from the benefits of steaming broccoli to a step-by-step guide on how to achieve perfect results every time.

How to prepare broccoli for steaming

Steaming broccoli is a great way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is a fast cooking method that helps broccoli retain its texture, colour, and nutrients. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare broccoli for steaming in a pressure cooker.

Step 1: Wash the Broccoli

Rinse the broccoli thoroughly under cool, running water. This will help remove any dirt or chemicals that may be on the surface.

Step 2: Cut the Broccoli into Florets

Using a sharp chef's knife, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Try to cut the florets into equal sizes so that they cook evenly and uniformly. The size of the florets will also depend on your preference for texture. For softer broccoli, cut the florets into smaller pieces. For broccoli with a slight crunch, cut them into larger pieces.

Step 3: Place Broccoli in the Steamer Basket

Place the broccoli florets into a steamer basket. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use the trivet that came with your pressure cooker or a metal steamer. It is important to keep the broccoli out of the water to avoid overcooking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Season the Broccoli (Optional)

Before steaming, you can add seasonings to the broccoli for extra flavour. You can sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, or olive oil over the florets. Alternatively, you can add a light dressing, such as lemon juice or soy sauce, to the broccoli after steaming.

Step 5: Add Water to the Pressure Cooker

Pour about one cup of water into the base of your pressure cooker. This water will be used to generate steam. You can also add chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for added flavour.

Now that your broccoli is prepared and placed in the steamer basket, you are ready to steam it in the pressure cooker!

What to put in the pressure cooker

To steam broccoli in a pressure cooker, you'll need to add water to the pot. Some recipes suggest adding just enough water to cover the base of the pot, while others recommend adding 1 cup of water. You can also swap out the water for chicken or vegetable broth to add extra flavour to your broccoli.

Next, you'll need to prepare your broccoli. Wash the broccoli under running water, then use a chef's knife to cut the broccoli head into medium-sized florets. Try to cut the florets into equal sizes so that they cook evenly.

Now you're ready to add the broccoli to the pressure cooker. If you have a steamer basket, place it inside the pot, and add the broccoli florets. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a trivet or the tray that came with your pressure cooker. It's important to keep the broccoli out of the water so that it cooks evenly and doesn't become mushy.

Finally, secure the lid, making sure the valve is set to the sealing position. Set the pressure cooker to low pressure and cook for 0 minutes. This means that the broccoli will cook as the pressure cooker comes up to pressure. Once the cooker beeps, manually release the pressure and remove the broccoli to prevent overcooking.

How long to steam broccoli

Steaming broccoli in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is also a great way to retain its bright green colour, flavour, and nutrients.

The time it takes to steam broccoli in a pressure cooker depends on the texture you are aiming for. If you like your broccoli soft, it should take around 8-10 minutes. If you prefer your broccoli to have a little crunch, it will take around 5 minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Wash the broccoli under running water. Using a chef's knife, cut the broccoli head into medium-sized florets of roughly equal size (around 1.5 inches). This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly.

Step 2: Pressure Cook

Add a cup of water to the pressure cooker, which is necessary for steaming vegetables. Place a steamer basket or a trivet inside the cooker, and transfer the broccoli florets into it.

For soft broccoli, set the cooker to High Pressure and cook for 0 minutes. This does not mean that the broccoli is ready as soon as the cooker comes to pressure. It takes around 5-10 minutes for the cooker to reach pressure, and this is the actual cooking time for the broccoli.

For slightly crunchy broccoli, set the cooker to Low Pressure and cook for 0 minutes. Again, the broccoli will cook as the cooker comes to pressure, which should take around 5 minutes.

Step 3: Release Pressure and Serve

Once the cooker beeps and reaches pressure, manually release the pressure by following the quick-release instructions of your cooker. Open the lid, and remove the broccoli immediately to prevent overcooking.

Season the broccoli with salt and pepper, or other seasonings of your choice, and serve.

Tips:

• If your pressure cooker does not have a zero-minute option, you can steam for 1 minute on low pressure.
• If you are using frozen broccoli, the cooking time remains the same.
• To prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy, cut the florets into larger pieces.
• For added flavour, you can swap out the water for chicken or vegetable broth.
• To store leftovers, place the steamed broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

How to season steamed broccoli

There are many ways to season steamed broccoli. Here are some ideas:

Oils

A drizzle of olive oil or melted butter can add a rich and savoury taste to steamed broccoli. Sesame oil is also a great option if you want to add an Asian twist to your dish.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are classic seasonings that can enhance the flavour of steamed broccoli. You can use regular salt or get creative with garlic salt or kosher salt.

Citrus

Lemon juice can add a tangy and refreshing note to your broccoli. For an extra punch of flavour, you can also add lemon zest or slices.

Cheese

Cheese lovers can enjoy steamed broccoli with a sprinkle of parmesan or feta cheese. For an indulgent option, try dipping the broccoli in melted Velveeta cheese.

Spices and Herbs

Spices like nutmeg, paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth of flavour to steamed broccoli. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or mint can also be a delicious addition.

Condiments

Soy sauce, oyster sauce, or general Tso's sauce can be drizzled over steamed broccoli for an umami boost. If you're feeling adventurous, try blending sour cream, horseradish, mayo, salt, and lemon juice for a unique dipping sauce.

Other Savoury Options

For a punch of umami, add some minced garlic to your broccoli, either during steaming or as a topping. You can also toss the broccoli in a hot frying pan with butter, olive oil, and garlic for a quick stir-fry.

Sweet and Tangy

For a unique flavour profile, try a dressing made with olive oil, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and nutritional yeast. This combination will give your broccoli a creamy, tangy, and slightly nutty taste.

Simple is Best

Sometimes, keeping it simple is the best approach. A sprinkle of salt and pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice, can be all you need to enhance the natural flavour of steamed broccoli.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of these seasonings to find your favourite way to enjoy steamed broccoli!

How to store steamed broccoli

To store steamed broccoli, you will need to place it in an airtight container or wrap it securely in foil before storing it in the fridge. It should keep for 3 to 5 days.

If you want to store cooked broccoli in the freezer, you will need to cut the broccoli into florets and slice off the stalks. Then, steam them for about 4 minutes and chill them in ice water. Pat the broccoli dry and place it in sealed bags. It will keep for up to 12 months. However, be aware that thawed broccoli will lose its crunch and is best suited for adding to soups, sauces, and pasta dishes.

Frequently asked questions