I was in the grocery store, looking for some broccoli to make a nice side dish for dinner. I found a nice bunch of broccoli spears and decided to buy them.
I returned home and asked my grandmother how to cook broccoli spears and what is the health benefits of this vegetable. She was happy about my interest in cooking vegetables.
She is a good cook always and an expert in cooking vegetables like a pro chef. Here is what I wanna share with you what I have learned from my grandmother’s experience and knowledge of eating broccoli.
What is a spear of broccoli?
A spear of broccoli is the long, edible stem of the broccoli plant. It is usually green in color and has a slightly bitter taste. Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family and is native to Europe.
It was first cultivated in Italy in the 16th century. Broccoli is a low-calorie food that is high in fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used as an ingredient in soups and salads.
Why Do We Make Broccoli Spears?
Have you ever wondered why we make broccoli spears? It may seem like a silly question, but it’s quite interesting! It turns out that the way we prepare broccoli spears is based on centuries of tradition.
In the medieval era, people believed that pointy vegetables were more effective at warding off evil spirits. As a result, many vegetables were prepared in this way, including broccoli.
While this belief is no longer taken seriously, the tradition of preparing broccoli spears has endured.
Today, we continue to make broccoli spears because they are easy to eat and cook evenly.
We Cook Broccoli Spears Because they look nice
There’s no denying that asparagus spears look pretty on a plate. Their slender, grass-like stems and delicate leaves add a touch of elegance to any dish. But there’s more to asparagus than just good looks.
This versatile vegetable can be boiled, steamed, grilled, roasted, or even eaten raw. Asparagus is also a good source of vitamins A and C, folate, and fiber.
So the next time you’re looking for a way to spruce up your meal, reach for some asparagus spears.
It is simple and easy to Cut Broccoli Spears
Many people think that broccoli is a difficult vegetable to prepare, but it is quite simple.
How To cut Broccoli Spears Like A Pro
- The first step is to cut off the florets, which can be done by hand or with a knife.
- Once the florets are removed, the next step is to cut the stalk into thin slices. This can be done by angling the knife downwards and slicing through the stalk in a single motion.
- Finally, the broccoli spears can be cut into smaller pieces if desired. With a little practice, anyone can learn to cut broccoli spears quickly and easily.
How to Cook Better Broccoli Spears
The key to cooking better broccoli spears is twofold:
First, choose the right type of broccoli, and second, cook it properly. When choosing broccoli, look for heads that are deep green and have tightly clustered florets. Avoid broccoli that has yellowed or begun to flower.
What is the best way of cooking Broccoli?
As for cooking, the best way to cook broccoli is to steam it. Steaming helps to retain the broccoli’s nutrients and color while also making it more tender.
To steam broccoli, fill a pot with an inch or two of water and place a steamer basket inside. Cut the broccoli into spears, then place them in the basket and cover the pot.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the broccoli steam for three to five minutes.
Once it is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and serve immediately. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy delicious, nutrient-rich broccoli spears that are perfectly cooked every time.
Tips for cooking better Broccoli Spears
- Rinse the broccoli spears in cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Cut the broccoli spears into uniform pieces. If the spears are thick, you may want to cut them in half lengthwise.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, and then add the broccoli spears. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until they are tender.
- Drain the broccoli spears and then place them in a bowl. Add your desired seasonings and toss to coat.
- Serve the broccoli spears hot, or store them in the refrigerator for later.
Important Facts You must know About Broccoli Spears
How do you freeze broccoli spears?
Freezing broccoli is a quick and easy process, and it can help to preserve the nutrients in the vegetable.
- First, wash the broccoli spears and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Next, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for two to three minutes. This helps to stop the cooking process and prevents the broccoli from becoming mushy when thawed.
- Finally, transfer the broccoli to a colander and let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
How long does it take to steam broccoli spears?
As a general guideline, it will take about five minutes to steam broccoli spears. The spears should be placed in the steamer basket, and the basket should then be lowered into a pot of boiling water.
The pot should be covered, and the broccoli should be allowed to steam until it is tender but still crisp. Once done, the broccoli can be removed from the steamer and served immediately.
How long for broccoli spears to cook?
If you want your broccoli to be on the crisp side, err on the side of shorter cooking times. If you prefer it to be more tender, give it a few extra minutes.
You can also experiment with different cooking methods to find what works best for you. Some people prefer steaming, while others find that roasting or sauteing brings out the best flavor.
How long does to microwave broccoli spears?
To cook broccoli spears in the microwave, start by placing them in a microwave-safe dish. Add a little water, then cover the dish and cook on high for two to three minutes.
Broccoli is done when it is tender but still crisp. Cooking times may vary depending on the power of your microwave, so it is important to keep an eye on the spears and stop cooking as soon as they are done.
For best results, serve immediately.
How long to steam broccoli spears?
To steam broccoli spears, start by trimming the ends off of the spears. Next, fill a pot with enough water to come up 1-2 inches from the bottom of a steamer basket.
Bring the water to a boil, and then add the broccoli spears to the basket. Cover the pot and allow the broccoli to cook for 3-5 minutes or until it is tender but still crisp.
How many broccoli spears make a serving?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, a serving of broccoli is equivalent to one cup of cooked broccoli spears. This contains around 130 calories and 3 grams of fiber.
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as containing potassium and calcium. It is also low in fat and sodium.
How to cook frozen broccoli spears?
Cooking frozen broccoli spears is quick and easy, and they make a great healthy side dish.
- First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Then, place the frozen broccoli spears on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Make sure that the spears are not touching each other, as this will help them to cook evenly.
- Next, bake the spears for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
- Finally, remove from the oven and enjoy! You can also season your broccoli with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices before cooking.
How to cut broccoli into spears for a veggie tray?
Cutting broccoli into spears is easy – just follow these simple steps.
- First, cut off the florets at the base of the stalk.
- Next, cut the stalk into thirds or quarters, depending on how large you want the spears to be.
- Finally, use a sharp knife to cut the florets into spears. For an extra touch of elegance, you can even use a crinkle cutter to give the spears a wavy edge.
How to roast broccoli spears?
The key to success is in the roasting process.
First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
Next, wash your broccoli spears and cut them into uniform pieces. If the spears are too thick, they will take longer to roast and may not become as crispy.
Once the spears are cut, toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Be sure to coat the spears evenly so that they roast evenly.
Then, spread the spears out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes. The Spears should be tender but still, have a little bit of crunch when you bite into them. Enjoy!
