How to Steam Broccoli
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5
How to Steam Broccoli
Description
To steam broccoli, trim and wash the florets thoroughly. A steam basket or colander placed in a saucepan lets the broccoli cook above simmering water, ensuring it steams rather than boils. The water should just cover the bottom of the pan but not touch the broccoli. Covering the pan traps the steam, cooking the broccoli evenly in about 5 to 7 minutes until it is tender but still crisp when tested with a fork. Butter, salt, and pepper can be added after steaming for flavor.
Steaming helps retain more nutrients and color compared to boiling. This method also prevents sogginess and maintains a pleasant crunch. If a steamer basket is unavailable, adding a small amount of water to a pan and briefly steaming with frequent checking works as an alternative, with draining afterward.
Steamed broccoli is a healthful side suitable for diverse dishes and can be seasoned simply or dressed with sauces. Care should be taken when removing the lid to avoid steam burns.
Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli trimmed and washed, florets
- 1 ½ cups water
- butter salt and pepper for serving, optional
Instructions
- Place a steam basket or colander into a large saucepan.
- Add broccoli and enough water to cover the bottom of the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and cook 5-7 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp when pierced with a fork.
Notes
- Peel woody stems to enjoy broccoli stems along with florets.
- Ensure water does not touch the steamer basket to prevent soggy broccoli.
- Adjust cooking time based on desired tenderness by testing with a fork or tasting a floret.
- If no steamer basket is available, use a small amount of water in a saucepan and drain broccoli immediately after steaming.
- Open the lid away from yourself to avoid steam burns when checking broccoli during cooking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 23 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 23 | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Sodium | 27mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 215mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 425IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 60.9mg | 68% |
| Calcium | 35mg | 4% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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