Vegetables are very nutritious, and broccoli is no different. In addition, to be healthy, broccoli is relatively easy to prepare, sweet, and suitable for use in various types of recipes. Though preparing broccoli is pretty much straightforward, microwaving it is undoubtedly the easiest method of steaming your broccoli.
So, how do you steam broccoli in a microwave? To find the answer to this question, consider reading this article to the end as we discuss how to steam broccoli in the microwave. With that said, let’s get started on today’s topic.
How to steam broccoli microwave?
First thing first, you will need to understand that steaming broccoli in a microwave is not rocket science. All that is required of you is to follow these simple steps
- Cut your broccoli into bite-size florets.
You should cut your stalk smaller than your florets if you want to eat them. Meanwhile, remove any woody bits so that everything on your plate cooks evenly.
- Take your broccoli and put it in a microwave-safe bowl, and then add water.
It is often advisable to use a ceramic bowl for a better result. For every pound of broccoli which is about one head, add about two to three tablespoons of water.
- Tightly cover your bowl.
You should avoid using plastic wrap while microwaving your broccoli. However, use stoneware or ceramic plates and cover them tightly.
- Microwave your broccoli on the regular power (high) for about 3 to 4 minutes.
At the end of this time, you will receive a tender and slightly crispy broccoli; however, you should note that this will highly depend on the strength of your microwave. You might consider checking your broccoli for around 2 ½ minutes, covering it and returning it to your microwave if it is not yet done. By doing so, you will prevent your broccoli from becoming mushy.
- Uncover the lid with the utmost care.
Once your broccoli is ready, uncover it to stop the steaming process. You will need to take caution while doing so since the steam is hot and can lead to injuries if you are not careful.
You might consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a small pat of butter before steaming your broccoli for added flavor. Add pepper and salt only after your broccoli is ready and not during the steaming process.
How do microwave steam broccoli?
Microwave steamed broccoli the same way it cooks other foods by focusing the electromagnetic energies on water molecules. This forces them to vibrate hence generating heat due to friction. This means that foods with significantly high water content cook faster and effectively in a microwave. Due to this, vegetables, including broccoli, tend to cook faster due to their high water content.
When microwaving your broccoli, it is recommended to cut them into smaller pieces of about one inch in size to allow long wavelengths to penetrate your vegetable with the utmost ease hence cooking it properly.
Is it safe to microwave broccoli?
Although microwaving broccoli is pretty much straightforward, is it really safe? The answer is yes. Microwaving broccoli is considered safe and healthy; like most foods, broccoli must be prepared for its nutrients to be available for digestion. Therefore, microwaving is safe and very effective.
Usually, most individuals believe that microwaving food is dangerous since it can get rid of all nutrients and add some unhealthy components to your food. However, this is never the case. In fact, microwaving is said to be safer than most cooking methods we have out there. According to various experts, microwaving your food is one of the most effective and best methods of preparing highly nutritious meals.
With a relatively small amount of water, you can steam and prepare your food faster while retaining all the essential vitamins and minerals. Several studies have shown that broccoli retains its sulforaphane (an anti-cancer element) when steamed in the microwave.
However, to enjoy safe and healthy broccoli, you will need to steam it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it in a tight lid that is also microwave friendly. You should also use a significantly small amount of water to allow your broccoli to retain all the essential nutrients.
Can broccoli be microwaved without water?
Since broccoli contains significantly high water content like most vegetables, it is safe to say that you can microwave your broccoli safely without water. Broccoli is said to be 90% water, so you should expect to microwave it within the shortest time possible without adding water.
Microwaving your broccoli is way better than cooking it in boiling water since it will extract all its nutritional values. When it comes to microwaving your broccoli without water, you will need to use a significantly sizable microwave-safe bowl and then fill it with bite-size florets. Once that is done, cover it using a microwave-safe lid or plate and then microwave it on high for about three to four minutes.
Moisture content in your broccoli will be released as it heats up. As time progresses, more steam will come out, and it will help in steaming your broccoli properly without getting rid of all the essential nutrients in it.
Things to consider when steaming your broccoli in a microwave
When steaming your broccoli in the microwave, here are some vital tips you will need to keep in mind;
- Always use a microwave-safe bowl and lid. To drain the liquid afterward, you will require a colander.
- Wash your broccoli and cut them into bite-size florets.
- Use a small amount of water to steam your broccoli.
- Always prepare your broccoli until it becomes crunchy and not mushy.
- Season your broccoli only once it is ready and not while in the microwave.
Takeaways
Microwaving your broccoli is not only safe but also relatively easy, all you need is a microwave and broccoli and you be good to go. Therefore, the next time you want to prepare your broccoli, consider using your microwave and adhering to the tips discussed in this article. With that said, we hope you have found this article beneficial.
