This time of year, from the farmer’s market to the supermarket, broccoli is everywhere! And considering how rich they are in nutritional properties and their versatility in the kitchen, they’re a favorite for weeknight dinners. But how can we really recognize fresh broccoli when we see it?
The Buying Guide to Fresh Broccoli
Does the broccoli you bought look more like a bouquet of yellow wildflowers than a vegetable? Sorry, this broccoli is not so fresh – even if it might look kind of pretty. Learning a few tricks to find a good, freshly picked vegetable is essential. The first step is to check the color of the vegetable. Usually broccoli is green, for example, and if the flowers are at all yellow, it’s definitely on its way out. Obviously, in the most extreme cases, you can find small patches of mold. Another factor to consider is the broccoli’s consistency: it must be firm. These two elements ensure that the broccoli is fresh.
The Best Ways to Keep Broccoli Fresh
Once you purchase fresh broccoli, it must be used within a few days. To maintain freshness, avoid washing them until right before you cook them – otherwise, they tend to mold with excess moisture like many other vegetables. Alternatively, fresh broccoli can be frozen to enjoy once it’s out-of-season. Naturally, scald the broccoli by soaking pre-washed florets in boiling water for 2 minutes to “deactivate” the natural enzymes that cause any spoiling of the vegetable. Then immerse the florets in cold water mixed with ice to reduce the temperature. Dab with a cloth to absorb excess water. Make portions by placing them in separate plastic bags to keep in the freezer. Frozen broccoli can be consumed within 6 months, so don’t forget to write the date on the bags!
