Steaming Broccoli: Quick Microwave Method

Steamed broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a multitude of recipes. It is a healthy, nutrient-packed option that can be made in the microwave in just a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly steamed broccoli in the microwave.

Cut broccoli into bite-sized pieces

To cut broccoli into bite-sized pieces, start by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Then, cut the broccoli into uniform-sized florets that are about 1 inch long. Make sure to remove and discard any super-tough ends and woody bits. You can also cut the stalks into smaller pieces, but be sure to make them smaller than bite-sized to ensure even cooking. If you plan to eat the stalks, be sure to remove any really woody parts.

It's important to cut the broccoli into similar-sized pieces so that they cook evenly and at the same rate. Larger pieces will need to be cooked longer, so keep that in mind when deciding the size of your florets.

If you're using pre-washed broccoli florets, simply chop any larger pieces to ensure they're all roughly the same size.

Once your broccoli is cut into bite-sized pieces, you can move on to the next step of steaming it in the microwave.

Place broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl

To cook steamed broccoli in the microwave, you'll need to start by placing the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl. It's important to ensure that the bowl is made of microwave-safe material, such as glass or ceramic. The bowl should also have tall sides that can trap steam.

When preparing the broccoli, cut it into uniform bite-sized pieces or florets. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly. Remove any super-tough ends and woody bits. You can also cut and cook the stalks, but make sure they are smaller than bite-sized pieces.

Once you have prepared the broccoli, place it in the microwave-safe bowl. If you are using frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the bowl without chopping. If you are cooking a large amount of broccoli, you may need to chop the florets into slightly smaller pieces to ensure they all fit in the bowl without peeking over the top.

Now that your broccoli is in the bowl, you are ready to move on to the next step—adding water.

Add 2-4 tablespoons of water

After cutting the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl and add 2-4 tablespoons of water. The amount of water added depends on the portion of broccoli being cooked. For one pound of broccoli, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl with a lid or plate, avoiding the use of plastic wrap or aluminium foil.

Microwave the broccoli on high for 2 to 4 minutes. The cooking time depends on the power of the microwave, the type of bowl, and the amount of broccoli. Check the broccoli after 2.5 minutes and continue cooking in short intervals until tender. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as the steam will be hot.

After cooking, season the broccoli with salt, pepper, olive oil, or butter. You can also add lemon juice, garlic powder, cheese, red pepper flakes, or soy sauce for extra flavour.

Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap

Covering the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap is an essential step in the process of steaming broccoli in the microwave. This covering creates a sealed environment that traps the steam generated during cooking, ensuring that the broccoli is adequately cooked. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for this step:

Firstly, if you choose to use a plate, ensure that it is made of microwave-safe material such as ceramic or stoneware. Avoid using plastic wrap, especially if it is not specifically designed for microwave use. If you opt for a plate, select one that fits snugly on top of the bowl, creating a tight seal to prevent steam from escaping.

When using a plate or plastic wrap, it is crucial to leave a small gap or ventilation hole to allow some steam to escape. This prevents pressure from building up inside the container, which could cause an explosion. A small gap also helps to prevent the broccoli from becoming overcooked or soggy by allowing some moisture to escape.

The size of the bowl and plate is also important. Choose a bowl with tall sides that can effectively trap steam. Ensure that the plate is large enough to cover the opening of the bowl completely. If using plastic wrap, select one that is large enough to cover the bowl with some overlap, allowing you to secure it tightly.

Before placing the cover on the bowl, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water per head of broccoli used. This water will turn into steam during the cooking process, helping to cook the broccoli evenly and preventing it from drying out.

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 may vary depending on the strength of your microwave and the desired level of doneness. It is recommended to start with a shorter cooking time and then check the broccoli. If it is not tender yet, you can always put it back in the microwave for a little longer.

Always exercise caution when removing the cover after cooking. The steam that has built up inside will be very hot and can cause burns if not handled carefully. Use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands when removing the cover.

Microwave for 2-4 minutes

After preparing your broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and placing it in a microwave-safe bowl with 2-4 tablespoons of water, it's time to microwave it!

Place a lid or plate on top of the bowl, ensuring it's microwave-safe and doesn't use plastic wrap. Then, microwave on high for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the strength of your microwave and the size of your broccoli florets, so you may need to adjust. It's better to undercook the broccoli than overcook it, so start with a shorter cooking time and add more time as needed.

Once the broccoli is tender, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, being cautious of the hot steam. You can then season the broccoli with salt, pepper, butter, olive oil, or any other desired toppings.

Frequently asked questions