We might talk about broccoli as one of the most common vegetables, but how often are you really eating it? Broccoli is so good for you, and can be as easy to prepare as you make it! This post is all about how to select, store and prepare broccoli in order to be able to enjoy them to their fullest.
(This post is an excerpt from The Produce Nerd’s Grocery Guide, with input provided by Gold Coast Packing. You can learn more about the Grocery Guide, which covers this information for 55 different produce items, with input from 26 crop-specific companies HERE.)
What to look for when picking the best quality broccoli?
- Broccoli should be green with minimal yellowed edges.
- From The Produce Nerd: The heads should be firm and compact, with closed flower buds. Open flower buds are a sign of over-mature heads.
Common issues to avoid when selecting broccoli?
- Avoid broccoli that has brown spots on the flower parts.
- On the tips, avoid brown dots as that is an indication of early decay.
Are there any common issues that are specifically caused by bad grocery store handling?
- If broccoli has been handled improperly, either too cold or too warm, it will start to turn brown on the floret or on its ends. As it starts to decay, it will get mushy and turn brown.
What is the best way to store broccoli at home?
- Broccoli should be stored in the refrigerator in the veggie drawer. If you wash your product at home, make sure to dry well before storing.
Are there any common things that consumers should look for not mentioned above?
- Broccoli does have an off odor. That does not mean it is bad or starting to go bad, it just has a smell to it.
What is your favorite way to eat and prepare broccoli?
- Raw, roasted, grilled, steamed or mixed into your favorite dish. Broccoli can be eaten in hundreds of ways. It is too difficult to pick our favorite way.
- From The Produce Nerd: I recommend roasting broccoli in the oven with some avocado oil, garlic salt and paprika. You won’t regret it! I also love to do roasts with multiple vegetables, and with broccoli, I really like the mixing either carrots and/or sweet potatoes.
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