Steamed broccoli is super quick and simple: just don’t be temped to overcook it! Steaming it for 3 to 5 minutes results in broccoli that’s bright green and crisp tender. Cook even a few minutes past and it goes from bright and crisp to faded and mushy.
Should cooked broccoli be soft?
You can eat broccoli at any level of doneness from raw to baby-food-soft. It’s all up to your personal taste. Once the broccoli is cooked to your taste, drain it and serve immediately. If you’re planning to serve the broccoli later, dunk it immediately into a bowl of iciest water you can create.
How long does it take for broccoli to get soft?
2 to 3 minutes
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook, uncovered, until tender, 2 to 3 minutes depending on the size of the florets.
Is broccoli supposed to be crunchy when cooked?
Do not undercook it. Don’t be bullied into the modern orthodoxy that all green vegetables should be al dente to the point of crunchy. Most are better a little softer. The reason broccoli is so marvellous is that it has that extravagant head of hair.
How do I make my broccoli softer?
If your broccoli is starting to look a little sorry, try this: Trim about 1/2 inch from the base of the stalk and set the stalk in a glass of cold water; refrigerate overnight. It should perk right back up.
What happens when broccoli is overcooked?
Using a large quantity of water and overcooking results in the largest loss. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that you’ll lose 15 percent to 25 percent of the broccoli’s vitamin C and 5 percent to 15 percent of most B vitamins, except folate. The loss of folate is 15 percent to 35 percent.
How long does it take to boil broccoli?
Trim and cut the stalk in half, then finely slice it. Once boiling, use a slotted spoon to carefully lower the broccoli into the water. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender – you should be able to poke the tip of a knife easily into the florets.
Should you boil broccoli?
Broccoli can be eaten raw, but blanching it quickly in boiling water helps give it a more crisp-tender texture and bring out its flavor. Broccoli can also be steamed, sautéed, and roasted. You could even throw long spears on the grill!
How long do you steam broccoli on the stove?
Pour about an inch of water into a skillet or wok and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Put the broccoli florets in a steamer basket and season with salt. Set the steamer basket over boiling water and cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender, 8 to 10 minutes depending on the size of the florets.
How long to boil long stem broccoli?
Put a little water into a pan and bring it to a boil. 2. Put the broccoli into the pan, cover and turn down to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 mins or until you can pierce the stem easily with a sharp knife.
How do you keep broccoli crisp when cooking?
Steamed broccoli is super quick and simple: just don’t be temped to overcook it! Steaming it for 3 to 5 minutes results in broccoli that’s bright green and crisp tender. Cook even a few minutes past and it goes from bright and crisp to faded and mushy.
Can you eat soft broccoli?
Can You Eat Broccoli That Has Gone Soft in the Fridge? You can eat broccoli that has gone soft in the fridge if there are no signs of spoilage. In other words, if the broccoli does not have any discoloration, mold, unpleasant smell, or unpleasant taste, it should still be wholesome.
What is the healthiest way to cook broccoli?
Healthiest Way to Cook Broccoli
Lightly sauteed with garlic and a splash of water. It’s that simple. Cooking broccoli in this way retains most of its colour, nutritional value along with that crunch that results in a delicious side dish that even my youngest and pickiest eater enjoys.
Why is my broccoli rubbery?
The texture of broccoli can also be a factor that will indicate if the it has gone bad. If you see that the broccoli has gone white or has a slimy texture it means it is in the process of putrefaction, therefore avoid eating it and throw it away.
Should you blanch broccoli before stir frying?
Should you blanch broccoli before stir frying? Blanching broccoli is not necessary for stir frying, especially if you cut the florets small. If the florets are big they may take longer to cook in the wok, which may mean your chicken (or other veggies) gets overcooked.
How long do you blanch broccoli for?
about 30-60 seconds
To blanch broccoli, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, submerge chopped broccoli florets into the pot. It does not take long to blanch broccoli – only about 30-60 seconds, so keep an eye out for when the color changes from dull green to bright green.
How do I know if broccoli is cooked?
The broccoli is done when you can pierce it with a fork. As soon as it is pierce-able, remove from heat, place in serving dish. Note that green vegetables like broccoli will turn from vibrant green to drab olive green at about the 7 minute mark of cooking. So, watch the time, and don’t let the broccoli overcook!
Is it OK to eat overcooked broccoli?
In short: if you overcook your broccoli, like me, there’s no need to throw it away! Just enjoy its delicate flavor and creamy texture in other applications.
Why you should overcook broccoli?
Here’s the science behind it: When moist heat breaks down the broccoli’s cell walls, it triggers the formation of sulfur-containing compounds called isothiocyanates. The longer the broccoli is cooked, the more these compounds are produced and the more pungent the broccoli’s taste—but only up to a point.
Can you eat broccoli raw?
Broccoli is part of the cruciferous vegetable family and great food to include in your diet either raw or lightly cooked.
Why is broccoli good for you?
Broccoli is high in many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and potassium. It also boasts more protein than most other vegetables. This green veggie can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, but recent research shows that gentle steaming provides the most health benefits ( 1 , 2 ).