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Learn how to cut broccoli the right way! My method will give you beautiful florets that are perfect for any dish, while also reducing mess and making the most of the broccoli head.
A head of broccoli, a nutrient-dense veggie, often leaves a mess on the cutting board. If you wonder how to cut broccoli like a pro, achieve beautifully cut florets, and not waste any parts of it, don’t fear—I am sharing all my top tips!
I’ll show you how to quickly and easily cut broccoli florets the right way, giving you the best shapes while reducing waste. They will be perfect for making roasted broccoli or sautéed broccoli and adding to stir-fries or other dishes.
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How to cut broccoli the right way
Prep the Broccoli Head: First, make sure to clean the fresh broccoli. I recommend soaking the head in a bowl with cold water for 5-10 minutes. This will loosen any dirt or debris. Then, rinse it thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
Cut the Florets: It’s best to use a sharp knife and a sturdy chopping board. Trim about 1/2 inch from the tough stalk. If there are any broccoli leaves, remove them.
Then, hold the broccoli head upside down. Slice through the stems where they naturally branch off near the base of the florets to separate them from the main stalk. Keep a bit of the stems attached to the florets—they’re perfect for roasted or sautéed broccoli recipes.
Once you have only the top branch left, you lay the broccoli on the board and cut it off. If any of the florets are bigger than the rest, carefully slice the stem’s base and pull them apart with your fingers. When they are all even bite-sized pieces, they cook at the same speed.
Peel and Slice the Stem: There is no need to toss the broccoli stalk—it’s also loaded with nutrients! You can peel the outer layer with a vegetable peeler. Then, slice or dice the stem into even-sized pieces. See below my tips on what you can do with the stem.
Storage tips
In the fridge: To store cut cauliflower florets, make sure they are completely dry to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage. Place them in an airtight container or resealable bag, and optionally include a paper towel to absorb moisture. Store them in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 5-7 days.
In the freezer: blanch broccoli florets first, then store them in airtight bags for long-term freezing for up to 6 months.
Ways to use broccoli
- Side Dishes: Roast broccoli in the oven for a crispy texture, steam broccoli for a healthy, tender option, or air fry broccoli for a quick and crispy snack. For a flavorful twist, sauté broccoli in garlic and olive oil. During summer, grill broccoli for a smoky, charred finish. These easy methods make broccoli a versatile addition to any meal.
- Main Dishes: Add broccoli as an integral part to many main dishes like this easy beef and broccoli stir fry.
- Soups and Salads: Add flavor and nutrients to your soups and salads. Make a creamy broccoli cheddar soup or delicious Asian broccoli salad.
What to do with broccoli stems
- Don’t throw away the broccoli stems! You can use them in soups for added flavor, slice them thin for stir-fries, or toss with olive oil and roast until tender. You can also save them for vegetable stock or steam and blend them into creamy broccoli hummus—just like traditional homemade hummus, but with broccoli stems instead of chickpeas.
Easy broccoli sides
If you try this method for how to cut broccoli florets, let me know how it goes in the comments below. I’d appreciate a recipe card rating and would love to see your recipe recreations – tag me on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
How to Cut Broccoli the Right Way
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli (or as many as needed)
Instructions
- Soak the broccoli head in a bowl with cold water for 5-10 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
- Using a sharp knife, trim about 1/2 inch from the tough stalk. Remove any leaves.
- slice through the stems where they naturally branch off near the base of the florets to separate them from the main stalk. Be sure to leave a bit of the stem attached to the florets.Cut the stem's base of large florets in two and pull them apart with your fingers to make them all even-sized.
- Peel the outer layer of the broccoli stem with a vegetable peeler. Slice or dice into even-sized pieces.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
So quick and easy, thanks!