Steaming Broccoli: A Quick, Healthy, Tasty Guide

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be roasted, turned into a salad, or cooked as a side dish. While there are many ways to prepare broccoli, steaming is one of the simplest and healthiest methods. This guide will teach you how to steam broccoli to perfection, ensuring it's tender and crisp without being mushy. You'll also discover the best toppings and dishes to pair with your steamed broccoli.

How to steam broccoli in a microwave

Steaming broccoli in the microwave is an easy and quick way to cook this versatile vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can also cut the broccoli into slightly larger chunks, but keep in mind that smaller, uniform pieces will cook more quickly and evenly. Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl.

Step 2: Add Water

Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bowl of broccoli. You can adjust the amount of water depending on the portion of broccoli you are cooking.

Step 3: Cover the Bowl

Cover the bowl with a loose-fitting, microwave-safe lid, or a ceramic/stoneware plate. If using a plate, ensure it is similar in size to the opening of the bowl to trap the steam. Avoid using plastic wrap or aluminium foil.

Step 4: Microwave

Microwave the broccoli on high power for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the power of your microwave, the amount of broccoli, and the type of bowl used. Start with a shorter cooking time and adjust as needed.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After microwaving, carefully remove the lid, being cautious of the hot steam. Check if the broccoli is tender by piercing it with a fork or knife. It should be tender but still slightly crispy. If it is not done to your liking, recover and microwave in 15-30 second increments until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the broccoli from the microwave and drain any excess water. Season the broccoli with salt and pepper, or try other seasonings like olive oil, butter, red pepper flakes, or soy sauce. Serve and enjoy!

How to steam broccoli on a stovetop

Steaming broccoli is a fast, healthy, and foolproof way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is also incredibly easy to do on a stovetop. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Preparation:

First, make sure your broccoli is completely washed. Submerge the head in a large bowl of water. Weigh it down with another bowl filled with water if it bobs up. Let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse them under a stream of cold water.

Many people cut off and discard broccoli stems, but you can steam and eat them too. Trim off the end of the stem if it is dry. Then, peel off the outer tough skin with a vegetable peeler. Slice the peeled stem into rounds until you reach the part of the stem where the florets branch off. Using a chef's knife, slice down through the head of broccoli to cut off florets, turning the head as you go. Try to cut the florets into even sizes so they cook at the same rate.

Steaming:

Now it's time to start steaming your broccoli! There are a few different methods you can use, depending on the equipment you have available:

Method 1: Using a Steamer Basket

Add water to a large saucepan—place a steamer basket into the pot, ensuring the water isn't touching the steamer basket. Then, add the broccoli florets into the steamer basket.

Turn the burner to high and bring the water to a boil. Cover the pot and let the water continue to boil. Steam the broccoli for around 4-6 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Method 2: Using a Pan/Pot with a Lid

If you don't have a steamer basket, you can simply use a pan or pot with a lid. Add water to a large saucepan and place the broccoli florets on top.

Turn the burner to high and bring the water to a boil. Cover the pot and let the water continue to boil for 4 minutes. During this time, the broccoli will steam. After 4 minutes, carefully strain the water from the broccoli and serve.

Method 3: Using a Metal Colander

If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander instead, provided it fits inside one of your pans. Pour about an inch of water into a skillet or wok and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Place the broccoli florets in the colander and season with salt.

Set the colander over the boiling water and cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender, around 8 to 10 minutes depending on the size of the florets. Remove the colander from the skillet and serve.

Seasoning:

Steamed broccoli is like a blank canvas—you can eat it with just salt and pepper, or dress it up with some lemon wedges. It can also be served with some butter, olive oil, mayonnaise, lemon zest or juice, seasoned rice vinegar, balsamic vinegar, ground black pepper, toasted almonds, or sesame seeds.

Tips:

• Be careful not to overcook your broccoli, as it can quickly turn from a vibrant green to an olive green colour.
• Ensure the water is hot and steamy before adding the broccoli to the steamer.
• If you don't have a steamer, you can put the broccoli directly into boiling water, but keep a close eye on it and remove it from the pan as soon as it's done to prevent it from getting waterlogged.
• Steaming broccoli should take no longer than 10 minutes, and you can steam for less time if you want crispier broccoli.

How to prepare broccoli for steaming

Steaming broccoli is a quick and healthy way to cook this nutritious vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare broccoli for steaming:

Wash the Broccoli

Although broccoli heads bought from the grocery store are not usually very dirty, dirt can be hiding in some of the nooks and crannies. To thoroughly wash the broccoli, submerge the head in a large bowl of water. If it bobs up, weigh it down with another bowl filled with water. Let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse them under a stream of cold water.

Trim the Broccoli and Cut it into Florets

Many people cut off and discard broccoli stems, but you can steam and eat them too. Trim off the end of the stem if it is dry. Then, peel off the outer tough skin with a vegetable peeler. Slice the peeled stem into rounds until you get to the part of the stem where the florets branch off. Using a chef's knife, slice down through the head of broccoli to cut off florets of roughly even size so they cook at the same rate.

Choose a Steaming Method

You can steam broccoli using a steamer basket, a large skillet, or a microwave. Here are the steps for each method:

Steamer Basket Method:

• Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
• Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket inside the pot.
• Cover with a tight-fitting lid.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
• Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice to taste.

Large Skillet Method:

• Fill a large skillet with just enough water to cover the bottom and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
• Place the broccoli florets directly in the skillet.
• Cover with a lid and steam for 4 to 5 minutes on low heat, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
• Season with salt and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Microwave Method:

• Place broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with just enough water to cover the bottom (or 2-3 tbsp).
• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
• Microwave for 2 to 5 minutes, depending on your desired consistency, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Tips for Perfectly Steamed Broccoli:

• Get the steaming water hot and steamy first, before adding the broccoli to the steamer basket.
• Set a timer for 5 to 7 minutes. Check the broccoli with a fork to see if it is cooked through.
• Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, as it will turn from vibrant green to drab olive green after about 7 minutes.

How to season steamed broccoli

Steaming broccoli is a fast, healthy, and simple way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is best to steam broccoli for no more than seven minutes to avoid overcooking it. There are many ways to season steamed broccoli, and here are some suggestions:

Olive Oil, Lemon, and Seasoning

A popular way to season steamed broccoli is to dress it with olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. You can whisk these together in a separate bowl and then pour the dressing over the broccoli, or you can add the olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings directly to the broccoli and toss to coat.

The seasonings can be kept simple, with just salt and pepper, or you can add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, or cayenne pepper. You can also add some lemon zest for extra flavour.

Butter

Another option is to top the steamed broccoli with butter and season with salt and pepper.

Cheese

You can also add some finely grated hard cheese like Parmesan, Pecorino, or Asiago.

Soy Sauce, Ginger, and Garlic

For an Asian-inspired flavour, you can season the broccoli with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is also a great option for seasoning steamed broccoli, especially if you are serving it with Cantonese-style blanched vegetables.

Nutritional Yeast

For a nutty flavour, you can add some nutritional yeast to the broccoli, along with a little fake butter, salt, and pepper.

Mayonnaise

Some people also enjoy steamed broccoli with mayonnaise. You can serve it on the side as a dip or add it directly to the broccoli and toss to coat.

Vinaigrette

You can also dress the steamed broccoli with a vinaigrette, such as lemon vinaigrette or another type of vinaigrette of your choice.

How to store steamed broccoli

Steamed broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish. It is also a great meal-prep building block as it can be served on its own or stirred into many dishes. Here are some tips on how to store steamed broccoli to keep it fresh and tasty:

Storing in the Fridge

Storing steamed broccoli in the refrigerator is a great option if you plan on eating it within a few days. Here's what you need to do:

• Let the broccoli cool down: Before storing, make sure the broccoli is no longer hot to prevent condensation and spoilage.
• Use an airtight container: Place the broccoli in a shallow, airtight container. This will help keep the broccoli fresh and prevent it from absorbing odours from other foods in the fridge.
• Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Steamed broccoli will usually stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Steamed Broccoli

If you want to store steamed broccoli for a longer period, freezing is a good option. Here's how to do it:

• Let the broccoli cool: Before freezing, ensure the broccoli is no longer hot.
• Portion the broccoli: Divide the broccoli into portions suitable for your needs. This will make it easier to use the broccoli when you need it.
• Use freezer-safe containers: Place the broccoli in freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure the containers are airtight and remove as much air as possible.
• Label and date the containers: Clearly label the containers with the date of freezing and the contents. This will help you keep track of how long the broccoli has been frozen.
• Freeze: Place the containers in the freezer. Steamed broccoli can last for about a year in the freezer when stored properly.

Tips for Storing Steamed Broccoli

• Do not overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will not only affect the taste and texture but also impact its shelf life. Aim for crisp-tender broccoli when steaming.
• Avoid washing before storage: Washing broccoli before storing can introduce excess moisture, encouraging mould growth. It is best to wash the broccoli just before cooking or consuming it.
• Wrap loosely: Whether in the fridge or freezer, ensure the broccoli is wrapped loosely to allow for some air circulation.

Frequently asked questions