How to Steam Blanch Zucchini
Zucchini is a resilient squash that is easy to grow and tastes great when prepared well. Its versatility allows it to be included in dishes ranging from stir fries to lasagna or pasta. You can even eat it raw, dipped in sauce or salad dressing. Steam blanching zucchini is a simple and quick preparation, often used to prepare zucchini for canning or freezing, which you might find necessary if you're growing more than one or two of these prolific plants yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Zucchini
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Grater
- Pot
- Steaming basket
- Bowl or other container
- Strainer
Instructions
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1
Rinse your zucchini thoroughly under cold running water.
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2
Place the zucchini on the cutting board. Cut off both ends with a knife. Grate the zucchini, skin and all.
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3
Place your steaming basket into your pot. Add water until it's about an inch below the bottom of the steaming basket. Your basket should be high enough that the water is at least 2 inches deep. Place this pot with the basket on the stove. Turn the heat to high to bring the water to a boil.
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4
Prepare a large bowl or other container of cold water, including ice cubes if possible. The container should be large enough to hold all of the zucchini comfortably. You can prepare this container while waiting for the water to boil.
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5
Put a single layer of your grated zucchini into the steaming basket once the water is boiling. Immediately cover the pot and allow the zucchini to steam for approximately 3 minutes, or until translucent.
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6
Dunk the steamed zucchini into the container of cold water to immediately stop the cooking process.
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7
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until you have steam blanched all of your zucchini.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful when dealing with hot water, as you may scald yourself. Open the lid of the pot slowly and away from you to avoid being injured by any escaping steam.
References
- Photo Credit zucchini image by Silvia Bogdanski from Fotolia.com
