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Steamed Broccoli

By America's Test Kitchen

Published on August 22, 2007

Time

20 minutes

Yield

Serves 4

Steamed Broccoli

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds broccoli (about 1 medium bunch), rinsed½ teaspoon table salt

Before You Begin

If you prefer, follow the illustrations below for rapidly trimming broccoli and proceed directly to steaming. While the broccoli cooks, prepare one of the suggested sauces, (see related recipes).

Instructions

  1. Separate florets from stalks at points where floret stems meet stalks. Cut off woody bottoms of stalks; trim away 1/8-inch of outer peel. Cut stalk in half lengthwise and then into bite-sized pieces. If desired, separate florets into smaller sections and peel stems; arrange in steamer insert or basket.
  2. Bring about 1-inch water to boil in deep, wide pot. Lower insert or basket with broccoli into pot so it rests above water; cover and simmer until just tender, 4 1/2 to 5 minutes. Remove broccoli.
Steamed Broccoli

Steamed Broccoli

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By America's Test Kitchen
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Time

20 minutes

Yield

Serves 4

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds broccoli (about 1 medium bunch), rinsed
½ teaspoon table salt

Test Kitchen Techniques

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds broccoli (about 1 medium bunch), rinsed
½ teaspoon table salt

Test Kitchen Techniques

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds broccoli (about 1 medium bunch), rinsed
½ teaspoon table salt

Test Kitchen Techniques

Why This Recipe Works

To meet the challenge of adding flavor without fuss to broccoli, we tossed uncooked dressings and sauces with steamed broccoli. We found that potent flavorings like chiles, ginger, garlic, citrus juices, and spices, which stand up to the strong flavor of broccoli, were best in our broccoli recipes.

Before You Begin

If you prefer, follow the illustrations below for rapidly trimming broccoli and proceed directly to steaming. While the broccoli cooks, prepare one of the suggested sauces, (see related recipes).

Instructions

  1. Separate florets from stalks at points where floret stems meet stalks. Cut off woody bottoms of stalks; trim away 1/8-inch of outer peel. Cut stalk in half lengthwise and then into bite-sized pieces. If desired, separate florets into smaller sections and peel stems; arrange in steamer insert or basket.
  2. Bring about 1-inch water to boil in deep, wide pot. Lower insert or basket with broccoli into pot so it rests above water; cover and simmer until just tender, 4 1/2 to 5 minutes. Remove broccoli.

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