How To Steam Broccoli Perfectly Every Time - Simply Recipes

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Steamed broccoli is the best cure for over-indulgence I know. It's cleansing, healthful, high in vitamin C, protein (45% of the calories in broccoli are from protein), and fiber.

How to steam broccoli so that it comes out perfectly every time?

How to Steam Broccoli
Elise Bauer

Tips for Steaming Perfect Broccoli

The most important thing to know about steaming broccoli is that cooking the broccoli any more than seven minutes tops risks overcooking it. After seven minutes the broccoli will turn olive green, instead of that beautiful vibrant green color we want.

So, to make sure the broccoli is perfectly cooked, here are a couple tips:

  • TIP 1: Get the steaming water hot and steamy first, before adding the broccoli to the steamer basket. A quick way to get the water hot is to use a tea kettle.
  • TIP 2: Set your timer for only five to six minutes. Smaller florets of young fresh broccoli may only need five minutes to cook, larger florets of more mature broccoli made need six. I recommend starting with five and then testing the broccoli with a fork to see if it is cooked through.
Steamed Broccoli on a blue and white plate
Elise Bauer

How to Serve Steamed Broccoli

As for serving the broccoli, the easiest way to dress broccoli is to dot it with dabs of butter. My favorite way to eat broccoli is to toss it with lots of freshly ground black pepper, and sprinkle it with a little seasoned rice vinegar. (Black pepper, by the way, is one of those perfect pairings with broccoli.)

My parents love their broccoli served with a little mayonnaise on the side, which is surprisingly good. You can also do olive oil and lemon zest (pictured above), olive oil and balsamic vinegar, etc. Good with toasted slivered almonds or toasted sesame seeds too.

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