Once the water has begun to boil add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Adding salt to boiling water not only adds some seasoning to the water, but it also increases the boiling point of the water. This in turn assists in cooking your food more efficiently![3] X Research source
For florets that are approximately 1½" across, cook for about 3 minutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly for different sized florets. The broccoli can become tender with just about 45 seconds in boiling water, though. The broccoli should be bright green and firm (though slightly softened) when you remove it. [5] X Research source
Remove the cooled florets from the cold water after 30 seconds and strain them again in the colander.
Secondary cooking methods (such as sauteing) primarily add flavor to vegetables and don’t usually cook the vegetables as thoroughly as needed. Blanching is a great way to pre-cook vegetables to be added to sauté and stir-fry’s.
Try to arrange the florets in a single layer to ensure the steam reaches all parts of the broccoli evenly.
Steam blanching broccoli takes approximately 5 minutes. About half-way through the cooking time, remove the lid and make sure the broccoli is not clumping together and that it is all cooking evenly.
