Broccoli is one of those vibrant-looking vegetables I’ve known, and yes, it’s a superfood! Many people on a diet always ensure that they have broccoli on their meal plans. This is simply because it’s low in calories but carries many nutrients.
If you’re interested in cooking and eating this superfood, then you must also know how to cut broccoli the right way.
Yes, cutting it properly is a big deal, especially if you want to impress your guests or just yourself for that aesthetic meal look!
Before learning how to cut broccoli, learn more about this superfood!
But before we talk in detail about the step-by-step process of how to cut broccoli, it’s time for our drill! Let’s learn more about this superfood and why many people love it!
History
The Roman Empire was the first who cultivate broccoli, and it’s native to the Mediterranean region. In 1720, it was introduced in England. And when American consumers found it, they realized it was a totally different one than that of cauliflower.
California is the first place where broccoli was first grown for commercial purposes, and today, there are billions of pounds of broccoli available in the United States.
Nutrients
We said earlier that broccoli is a superfood. But why and how? Let’s look at what nutrients it has!
- Vitamin K
- Calcium
- Collagen
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin A
- Potassium
- Beta Carotene
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin
All these vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can benefit you in different ways, such as:
- Reduced cancer risk
- Smooth skin
- Improved bone health
- Boosted immune system
- Healthy digestion
- Reduced inflammation
- Reduced diabetes risk
- Protected cardiovascular health
Do you wash the broccoli before cutting?
This is one of the most pressing questions I’ve heard, and here’s the answer!
Yes, you need to wash the broccoli before cutting it. This is to get rid of some dirt or debris that might be present on it.
But here’s the thing. Running water is enough to wash the broccoli. Some try to soak it, but it’s not advisable. Likewise, you need to pat dry your broccoli after washing it using a clean tea towel.
Steps on how to cut broccoli florets
Now, we’re down on this part! Here’s how to cut broccoli in a step–by–step process!
Step 1: Cut the floret stems.
Remember that a sharp knife is essential in producing nice cuts of broccoli. Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli floret where the larger stalk and the stem meet together.
Do not cut it where the florets are attached. Instead, cut it on the base. Likewise, you want to have a long stem, so it looks aesthetic!
Still, you can choose to cut the stem even shorter if you’ll use your broccoli for soups.
Step 2: Cut the large broccoli florets in half lengthwise.
Not all broccoli florets have the same size and in this step, collect the larger florets. You just need to cut the middle base of the stem of large florets. After that, pull them apart using your fingers.
Aim to have two equal sizes of broccoli florets, so make sure you cut them evenly. Even cutting will result in even cooking!
Step 3: Slice the stalk.
Now, you’re left with the stalk! Broccoli stalks are edible, and you can also add them to your dishes. One thing you need to do is to get rid of the outer skin on all sides.
After slicing the outer skin, cut it lengthwise, making long matchsticks. Now, you have broccoli perfect for dipping or even stirring fries!
How to cut broccoli for a slaw recipe?
If you’re planning to make a slaw as toppings for your salads and burgers, this brief guide is for you.
- Wash your broccoli quickly in running water.
- Peel the outer skin of the stem first.
- Make a julienne cut or long thin strips.
- Reference: The thin strips should be like matchsticks.
- Make your slaw!
Must try broccoli recipes!
After learning how to cut broccoli, we’ll give you some recipe ideas this time!
Broccoli and shrimp
All you need to do here is to saute the onion and broccoli for 5 minutes. Add your shrimp and cook for 4 minutes. Lastly, add vinegar, chili garlic sauce, and soy sauce. Stir for 1 minute, and you’re done!
Broccoli stir fry
In this recipe, you need to prepare and cut all your vegetables. Once they are ready, stir fry all of it, add ginger and garlic, and cook it for one more minute. Turn off the heat, put in the sauce, and you’re all done!
Other broccoli recipes include
- Creamy broccoli potato soup
- Sauteed broccoli
- Roasted broccoli
What’s the proper way to store broccoli?
First, make sure you are storing your broccoli in the right place. If you have a refrigerator, make sure to store it in the crisper section of your fridge.
This will help keep the broccoli from getting too soft and wilted. If you have a freezer, try putting the broccoli on top of other vegetables to remain crisp and fresh.
Next, ensure that the broccoli is clean before storing it in your fridge or freezer. If there are any dirt particles or pieces of leaves left on the vegetable, these can cause bacteria growth when frozen or refrigerated. The bacteria could then cause food poisoning when eaten later on!
Remember that you shouldn’t trust the room temperature in keeping your broccoli fresh.
The water in the plant keeps the leaves from drying out, but it also makes them turn brown quickly.
Storing broccoli in the fridge will keep them fresher, for longer. Still, freezing is a more effective way to preserve their nutrient content.
Time to cut some broccoli!
So there you have it. We hope this guide has helped you learn how to cut broccoli in a way that maximizes flavor and nutrition!
Now, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test! Go get your broccoli and see if you can make the right cut! And when you’re done, try adding it to a salad with some other fresh veggies and herbs or roasting it with a little olive oil and seasoning.
You can even try roasting it with other vegetables, like cauliflower or zucchini. The possibilities are endless!