How to Steam Broccoli

High in vitamin C, K and A and a rich source of fiber and proteins, broccoli is a healthy vegetable that should be a sure-shot addition to your diet. Truly broccoli health benefits are numerous and it is due to its anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer properties that this green "cauliflower looking" vegetable has become such a popular addition in myriad dishes including hors-d'oeuvre trays. This versatile vegetable can be cooked or eaten raw. While boiling or even stir frying has been known to decrease some of its beneficial properties, the best cooking method that ensures that the vegetable retains its nutrients is steaming. Not only does it take only a few minutes, but also results in wonderful crisp, tender florets that even the choosiest eaters are sure to love.

How to Steam Broccoli in a Steam Cooker

Step #1: For cooking the broccoli in a steam cooker, fill the steamer pan with an inch of water. Let the steamer basket sit over the water without getting submerged. Place the cooker on the stove and heat it on medium heat.

Step #2: While the water for the steaming is getting heated up, cut a bunch of broccoli into bite size florets. Try to cut off the florets from the stem using a sharp kitchen knife. Once the water has started boiling, place the florets on the steamer basket and place the cooker's lid

Step #3: Let the broccoli get steamed for around five minutes and do not remove the steam cooker's lid in the process. Once the timer is off, remove the steamer from heat and transfer the steamed broccoli into a lidded serving bowl. Sprinkle on the toppings like salt and put 2 teaspoons of butter on top. Allow the broccoli to sit for a minute or two, until the butter has melted. Toss the butter coated broccoli and serve immediately.

How to Steam Broccoli in Microwave

Microwave cooking of the broccoli helps in the vegetable retaining its nutrients and tasting as good as the broccoli steamed in a cooker. Here are the steps for cooking broccoli in a microwave.

Step #1: Cut the broccoli into bite sized florets. Although they do not actually have to be cut into equal pieces, make sure that they are divided into pieces that are small enough for a comfortable bite. Rinse the broccoli in cold water to remove the dirt from it.

Step #2: Use a microwave safe casserole or bowl and add the broccoli and water to it. Cover the dish with a lid or a saran wrap and place it in microwave. Two to three tablespoons of water should suffice for a bunch of broccoli.

Step #3: Microwave on high for three minutes. This should be enough to give you tender and crisp broccoli florets. You would know that the broccoli is cooked if it is dark green and opaque in color. However, the best way to know whether your broccoli is cooked to perfection is by tasting it. Perfectly cooked broccoli is crispy, structured and full of flavor.

Step #4: If you want to spice up your broccoli then you might consider adding a dash of soy sauce and butter to the dish before microwaving it. After the broccoli is cooked add some salt and pepper to it.

Now that you know how to steam broccoli, you can dress up the broccoli with yummy butter, cheese, live oil, flax seed oil, mayonnaise, lemon zest or juice, garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, toasted almonds, or sesame seeds. Cheese sauce can transform this lush looking vegetable into a tasty delight for your kids.