Blanching Brocolli

My son loves Brocolli, what more could a mother want :), A lot of people or some people tend to overcook their vegetables, either to soften them or to kill any scary germs lurking around. It is not just broccoli its also includes other vegetables, such as carrots, beans, etc.
It's because we tend to overcook them. I know I have overcooked my broccoli when my son refuses or pulls a face and says mumma you made soggy broccoli today. 


I always buy my broccoli from the farmer's markets, they are quite fresh, always look for a dark green top and good stem, no mushy ends.  Don't buy those with yellowing flower heads and browning heads.

Cut the florets into bite size florets. Heat a large saucepan with slightly salted water, and bring to a boil.

Once it starts to boil, add in the florets, put the lid on and cook for about 2-3 minutes.  While that happening fill a bowl with ice cold water, place near the sink

They should be bright green, slightly crunchy but lost the rawness.  Drain immediately and drop them into the icy water. Then drain again. 

Serve alongside any fish, meat or chicken dish, or you can place them, once they are drained well, in a zip lock freezer bag layer it up by lying the bag flat so the florets are in a nice even layer.. Pop in freezer and use whenever required.

To use from the freezer, defrost inside the fridge, an hour before using and dip in hot water for a minute , drain and serve or if using for cooking just pop in frozen florets into the dish and cook through.

Even though I love blanching and freezing broccoli, Frozen broccoli in the shops are also great. Perfect to buy and chuck in the freezer and use whenever you need it.