How to Blanch Broccoli
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5
How to Blanch Broccoli
Description
How to Blanch Broccoli walks you through cooking fresh broccoli florets quickly in boiling salted water for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Removing the broccoli promptly and plunging it into ice water stops cooking and locks in the color and texture. This simple step is useful when steaming or preparing broccoli in advance for stir-fries, salads, or freezing. Consistency in floret size ensures even cooking throughout. The recipe yields about six servings with half a cup of blanched broccoli each.
The brief cooking time retains a firm texture while muting bitterness, producing florets that remain vibrant green. After cooling, the broccoli can be drained and patted dry for recipes requiring further preparation. Storing leftover blanched broccoli in an open bag in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days helps maintain freshness.
Blanching broccoli is a versatile technique that improves flavor and appearance while allowing easier cooking management. The optional salt in the boiling water enhances natural flavors but can be omitted if preferred.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds broccoli florets
- 2 teaspoons salt (optional)
Instructions
- Bring 4 quarts water and 2 teaspoons salt to a rapid boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice.
- Carefully lower the broccoli florets into the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and just barely tender.
- With a slotted spoon, remove the broccoli and immediately plunge into the ice water.
- When the broccoli is completely cool, drain it from the ice water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Notes
- Cut broccoli florets to a uniform size for even cooking results.
- Select broccoli with firm stalks and bright green florets free of yellowing or spots.
- Store whole broccoli in an open bag within the refrigerator and use within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- Leftover blanched broccoli can be refrigerated covered for up to 4 days.
- This recipe yields approximately six servings, each about half a cup of blanched broccoli.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings (1/2 cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 51 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.5 cup | |
| Calories | 51kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 825mg | 34% |
| Potassium | 478mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 942IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 135mg | 150% |
| Calcium | 72mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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