Steaming Broccoli: Holding Temperature And Time Perfection

Steamed broccoli is a nutritious and flavourful side dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. The cooking time for steamed broccoli varies depending on the method used, but it is important not to overcook it to retain its vibrant green colour and crisp texture. In this article, we will explore different techniques for steaming broccoli, including using a steamer basket, a skillet, or a microwave, and provide insights into serving suggestions and storage. We will also discuss the optimal temperature for hot holding steamed broccoli to ensure it remains warm and appetizing.

Steamer Basket Method: Place broccoli in a steamer basket inside a pot with an inch of boiling water. Simmer for 5-8 mins

Steaming broccoli is a great way to cook this nutritious vegetable, preserving its vibrant green colour and fresh flavour without the addition of oil. Here is a step-by-step guide to steaming broccoli using a steamer basket:

Firstly, ensure your broccoli is thoroughly washed. The best way to do this is to 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 under a stream of cold water.

Next, trim the broccoli and cut it into florets. You can also peel, dice, and steam the stalk, or save it for another use, such as making broccoli rice. Try to cut the florets into even sizes so they cook at the same rate.

Now you are ready to start steaming. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring to a rolling 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 5-8 minutes, depending on the size of the florets. Smaller florets of young, fresh broccoli may only need five minutes to cook, while larger florets of more mature broccoli may need up to eight minutes. The broccoli is done when it is tender-crisp and bright green. It should be easy to pierce with a fork.

Once cooked, season with a bit of salt to taste. Steamed broccoli is great on its own, but you can also add some pepper, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Steamed broccoli is a fantastic healthy side dish, and it can also be served in grain bowls, mac and cheese, or tossed with noodles.

Large Skillet Method: Place broccoli in a skillet with water covering the bottom. Simmer for 4-5 mins

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to cook broccoli, steaming it in a large skillet is a great option. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get perfect steamed broccoli every time using this method:

First, prepare your broccoli by cutting the crowns away from the large stems. Break the crowns into bite-sized florets and rinse them thoroughly. You can also peel and slice the stems if you want to steam them along with the florets. Try to cut the broccoli into evenly sized pieces so that everything cooks at the same rate.

Next, fill a large skillet with just enough water to cover the bottom. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Then, place the broccoli florets directly into the skillet. If you're steaming the stems as well, add them to the skillet now.

Cover the skillet with a lid to trap in the steam. Allow the broccoli to steam for 4 to 5 minutes on low heat. Keep an eye on the time, as broccoli cooks quickly and can go from bright green to olive green if it's overcooked. You'll know the broccoli is done when it's tender-crisp and can be pierced with a fork.

Once the broccoli is done to your liking, remove it from the heat and season with a bit of salt. You can also serve it with lemon wedges or your favourite seasonings. Enjoy!

This method is a simple and effective way to cook broccoli, and it only takes a few minutes. By steaming broccoli instead of boiling it, you'll preserve its vibrant green colour and crisp-tender texture. Plus, you won't lose any nutrients to the cooking water. So, if you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to prepare broccoli, give the large skillet method a try!

Microwave Method: Place broccoli in a bowl with water at the bottom. Cover and microwave for 2-5 mins

Steaming broccoli is a fast, healthy, and simple way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is important not to overcook broccoli, as it can quickly turn from a vibrant green colour to a murky olive green. Broccoli should be steamed for no more than seven minutes, and ideally for around five to six minutes, depending on the size of the florets.

Microwave Method:

Place broccoli in a bowl with water at the bottom. Cover and microwave for 2-5 mins

To steam broccoli in the microwave, start by placing your broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl. Add just enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl (around 2-3 tablespoons). The water will drip to the bottom of the bowl, and this will turn into steam. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid. Microwave the broccoli on high heat for 2-5 minutes, depending on your desired consistency. Check the broccoli every 30 seconds to ensure it doesn't overcook.

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste, or try one of the following:

• Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes
• Sautéed garlic in olive oil
• Olive oil and lemon juice
• Butter
• Black pepper
• Seasoned rice vinegar
• Mayonnaise
• Toasted slivered almonds
• Toasted sesame seeds

Electric Pressure Cooker Method: Place broccoli in a steamer basket insert inside an electric pressure cooker with a cup of water. Cook on steam setting for 0 mins until pressurised and released

Steaming broccoli is a great way to cook this nutritious vegetable, as it helps retain its vibrant green colour, flavour, and nutrients. Here is a detailed guide on how to use the electric pressure cooker method to steam broccoli:

Electric Pressure Cooker Method:

Firstly, prepare the broccoli by cutting the crowns away from the large stems. Break the crown into bite-sized florets and rinse them thoroughly. Peel and discard the thick outer skin of the stems, then slice or cut them into quarters lengthwise.

Next, place a steamer basket insert inside your electric pressure cooker, and add a cup of water. The water is necessary to create steam and ensure even cooking. Place the broccoli florets and stems in the steamer basket.

Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to the steam setting. It is important to note that broccoli cooks very quickly, so be sure to set the timer accordingly. For crisp-tender broccoli, steam for about 5-6 minutes. If you prefer softer broccoli, you can steam for up to 7 minutes, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.

Once the timer goes off, manually release the pressure and carefully remove the steamer basket, as it will be hot. If you wish to halt the cooking process immediately, you can place the basket under cold running water for a minute.

Your perfectly steamed broccoli is now ready to be seasoned and served! A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice can enhance the flavour of the broccoli. Enjoy it as a healthy side dish or add it to grain bowls, pasta, or stir-fries.

Tips for Success:

• Get the water steaming before adding the broccoli to the steamer basket.
• Keep a close eye on the time to avoid overcooking. Broccoli can go from bright green to olive green in just a few minutes.
• For even cooking, try to cut the broccoli florets into similar sizes.
• If you don't have a steamer basket, you can place the broccoli directly into an inch of boiling water, but be sure to remove it from the pan as soon as it's cooked to avoid sogginess.
• Remember to quick release the pressure and remove the broccoli from the pressure cooker promptly to prevent overcooking.

Stovetop Method: Place broccoli in a skillet with 1/2 inch of boiling water. Cover and cook for 3-5 mins

Steaming broccoli is a fast, healthy, and simple way to cook this nutritious vegetable. It is important not to overcook broccoli, as it can quickly turn from a vibrant green colour to olive green and become mushy.

Stovetop Method:

Place broccoli in a skillet with 1/2 inch of boiling water. Cover and cook for 3-5 mins

To use this stovetop method, start by filling your skillet with about 1/2 inch of water and bringing it to a boil. Make sure not to use too much water, as this will cause the broccoli to boil rather than steam, resulting in soggy broccoli.

Next, add the broccoli to the skillet and cover it with a lid. Cook the broccoli until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. This should take around 3 to 5 minutes. To test if the broccoli is done, pierce it with a fork. The tines should be able to go into the stems, but the broccoli shouldn't be limp or have a brownish hue.

Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, drain the water and season with salt and pepper, or other seasonings of your choice.

This stovetop method is a great option for those who don't own any specialty equipment, such as a steamer basket or an electric pressure cooker. It's a quick and easy way to cook broccoli while retaining its antioxidants and vitamins and vibrant green colour.

Frequently asked questions