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Broccoli is a go-to vegetable for many people. FromSlow-Cooker Cheesy Rice with BroccolitoBroccoli-Cauliflower Soup, there are many tasty ways to enjoy broccoli. When you have extra broccoli on hand and can’t eat it all at once, don’t let it go to waste. Instead, read on for how to freeze broccoli and get more out of this cruciferous veggie. Plus, get recipes that call for frozen broccoli.
4 Impressive Health Benefits of Broccoli
How to Prep Broccoli
Broccoli needs a bit of prep before it’s frozen. If you learnhow to cut broccoli into florets, it will be easier to store than a whole stalk or crown. Not only do broccoli florets save precious freezer space, but storing broccoli this way also saves time when cooking and allows you to use the exact amount you need.
How to Blanch Broccoli
Once you have cut your broccoli into florets, it’s time to blanch them. Blanching vegetables helps preserve their color, kills unwanted bacteria and stops food-degrading enzymes. Learn how to blanch broccoli for freezing in two easy steps (the instructions below are for 1- to 1 ½-inch florets, so you may have to adjust the timing depending on the size of your florets).
How to Freeze Broccoli
After you’ve blanched your broccoli, it’s ready to be frozen. If packed away properly, broccoli can be stored in the freezer for 10 to 12 months (Need more storage advice? Learnhow to store broccoli in the fridge.)
How to Freeze Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
How to Cook Frozen Broccoli
When you’re ready to get cooking, frozen broccoli can be used in the same recipes that call for fresh. For recipes like salads, quiches and casseroles, it’s best to thaw the broccoli first so the dish doesn’t turn soggy (frozen broccoli can leach water while it thaws). However, for recipes like soups or stir-fries, you can add the broccoli straight from the freezer.
To thaw frozen broccoli, simply place the florets in a bowl in the fridge and let them defrost. Drain any excess water and pat dry before cooking. Once your broccoli is ready, recipes likeBroccoli Salad with BaconandEasy Broccoli-Cheddar Quicheare just the beginning. Read on to learn how to cook frozen broccoli.
How to Roast Frozen Broccoli
Pictured recipe:Balsamic & Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
How to Steam Frozen Broccoli
Pictured recipe:Broccoli Casserole
When you’re steaming frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it! In fact, the extra water from the frozen broccoli is beneficial because it helps create more steam. Learn how to steam broccoli, then try recipes likeTangy Broccoli with AlmondsandBroccoli with Creamy Parmesan Sauce.
How to Sauté Frozen Broccoli
Victor Protasio
Pictured recipe:Shrimp & Broccoli Stir-Fry
Sautéing is a quick and easy way to cook frozen broccoli. While there’s no need to thaw frozen broccoli beforehand, you may need to adjust cooking times or add your frozen broccoli to the pan first if you’re also sautéing fresh veggies, as the fresh veggies will tend to cook faster. Try recipes likeBroccoli Fried RiceandSautéed Broccoli & Kale with Toasted Garlic Butter.
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