I absolutely love broccoli. It’s one of those vegetables that is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. Whenever I’m looking for a healthy side dish or a quick snack, broccoli is always my go-to option. However, there have been times when I didn’t have a steamer to cook it. But fear not! I discovered a quick and easy method to steam broccoli in the microwave without a steamer. Let me share this amazing hack with you.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we jump into the process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this quick and easy method of steaming broccoli in the microwave:
– Broccoli heads: You can use as many as you like, depending on how much broccoli you want to steam. I typically use two small heads.
– Water: About 1/4 cup of water is enough for this method.
– Microwave-safe bowl: You’ll need a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl to hold the broccoli and water.
– Microwave: Of course, you’ll need a microwave to cook the broccoli.
Prepare the Broccoli for Steaming
Firstly, rinse the broccoli heads under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Next, grab a sharp knife and chop off the stem of each broccoli head. You only want the florets for this method. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are relatively equal in size. This will help them cook evenly in the microwave.
Get the Microwave-Safe Bowl Ready
Now, take your microwave-safe bowl and pour in about 1/4 cup of water. This water will create steam when heated in the microwave, allowing the broccoli to cook without losing its nutrients.
Steam the Broccoli in the Microwave
Once your bowl is ready with water, it’s time to add the broccoli florets. Place the chopped florets into the bowl with the water, making sure they are evenly spread out.
After placing the broccoli in the bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe plate or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will create a seal and keep the steam inside the bowl, allowing the broccoli to steam properly.
Microwave at the Right Power and Time
The cooking time for microwaving broccoli can vary depending on the power of your microwave. Generally, microwaving the broccoli on high power for about 2 to 4 minutes should be sufficient. However, if you prefer your broccoli more tender, you can microwave it for a minute longer.
While the broccoli is steaming in the microwave, keep an eye on it. You don’t want it to overcook and become mushy. Check its doneness by poking a fork into a floret. If it goes through easily, your broccoli is ready.
Stay Safe When Handling the Hot Bowl
Once the broccoli is cooked to your desired tenderness, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Take off the plate or plastic wrap, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape.
To ensure the steam doesn’t burn your hands, use oven mitts or a clean kitchen towel to remove the bowl from the microwave. Remember, safety first!
Enjoy Your Perfectly Steamed Broccoli
Now that you have successfully steamed your broccoli in the microwave without a steamer, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
You can serve the steamed broccoli as a side dish with your favorite main course, add it to a salad, or simply enjoy it as a healthy snack. The possibilities are endless!
So, the next time you find yourself without a steamer but craving some steamed broccoli, don’t worry. As long as you have a microwave, you can easily and quickly steam your favorite vegetable using this simple method. Happy steaming!