Perfectly Cooked Broccoli

This post feels a little bit like explaining how to boil water (cuz honestly there’s not much more too it), but as someone who, for years had no idea how to achieve broccoli perfection, I could have used a post like this a long time ago.

Broccoli is one of the few super foods my kids actually like, probably due to my hubby’s healthy appetite for it.   I used to not like cooked broccoli, but have finally grown up and now it is a a staple in our house.

How to Cook Broccoli

1. Wash and cut broccoli into bite sized pieces.
   Bite sized is key if you want little mouths to eat it!
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil — the level of the water should be high enough to cover the amount of broccoli you are cooking
3. When the water comes to a boil, add the broccoli.
   I use a wooden spoon to push all the broccoli down into the water.
4. Set timer for 5 minutes.
   IMPORTANT:  do NOT wait for water to return to a boil, start the timer as soon the broccoli is added.
5. After 5 minutes, remove from heat, drain broccoli and serve.
   Broccoli should still look bright green and have a little firmness to it — no mushy broccoli!
6. Season with your favorite seasonings and toppings and enjoy!
   We like to season ours with a little butter, garlic salt and top with Parmesan cheese.

Alternate Method

Instead of cooking the broccoli for 5 minutes, you can wait until the water comes to a boil, then add the broccoli and boil for ONE minute.   My sister-in-law uses this method and it works great too.

Here’s some photos:

Broccoli Added to the Pot

The water was boiling when I added the broccoli, but then lost it’s boil.  Never fear, start that timer anyway!

Broccoli in a Full Boil

The water  usually returns to a boil with 1-2 minutes left on the timer.

Broccoli on the Plate

This broccoli has not yet been seasoned, but gives you and idea of the color and firmness.