How to Cook Broccoli

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that's available year-round. You can boil it, steam it, sauté or stir-fry it. Here are a few suggestions--easy, convenient, and hassle-free--for how to enjoy this underrated veggie in various different ways. Bon appetit!

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cutting Boards
• Broccoli
• Plastic food containers
• Woks
• Vegetable Steamers
• Chef's Knives
• Cooking Pots
• sauté pans

1. Separate broccoli into stem and florets (see "Chop Broccoli" in the Related eHows).

2. Boil broccoli in salted water for 4 to 7 minutes, or until crisp-tender.

3. Steam broccoli in a steamer over boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Microwave broccoli in a covered container, with a little water, for 3 to 5 minutes.

5. Sauté broccoli with garlic, olive oil and red pepper flakes for 5 minutes.

6. Stir-fry broccoli florets with garlic and ginger for 3 to 5 minutes. Try stir-fried broccoli with black bean sauce.

7. Serve broccoli with cheese sauce, lemon juice and butter or just a little salt.

Tips & Warnings

• Broccoli is done when it can be cut easily but the florets are still crisp.