Not long at all! Fresh broccoli florets take about 3-4 minutes to steam in the microwave. After the broccoli cooks, make sure to remove the lid from the dish. If you keep the lid on the dish, the broccoli will continue cooking and can result in mushy, overcooked florets. Not what we want!
How to cook frozen broccoli in the microwave?
Frozen broccoli florets take about 3-4 minutes to steam in the microwave. This is about the same time it takes to cook fresh florets. When cooked in the microwave, add 1 teaspoon of water to the frozen broccoli to quickly boost the steam.
How to tell when broccoli is cooked through?
Properly cooked broccoli florets are bright green and tender, with a crisp (not mushy) stem. To check if the broccoli is done to your liking, pierce the stem of a broccoli floret with a fork. If the broccoli is resistant, it may need an extra 1-2 minutes in the microwave. For softer, more tender broccoli that is safe for babies and people with trouble swallowing, microwave the broccoli for a minute or two longer.
How to freeze microwaved broccoli?
Like most vegetables, broccoli must be par-cooked before freezing. This will keep the integrity of the vegetable when you’re ready to use it later. First, cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Steam florets for 1-2 minutes in the Anyday, and then lay the cooked florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely, about 5-10 minutes. Pat dry any excess moisture (nobody wants ice-clad broccoli florets!). Freeze the broccoli on the baking sheet for at least 4 hours, and then transfer the frozen florets to a freezer-proof storage bag or portion the broccoli out in an Anytime Freezer Tray. Frozen broccoli should be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
