Broccoli is one of the healthiest foods, with several benefits, yet many picky eaters dislike it. Many of those are unaware that its bitterness is largely due to improper preparation. One of the easiest ways to prepare Broccoli is to boil it in water and serve it as a side dish.
However, health coach and culinary expert Elizabeth Rider has shared that boiling broccoli is, in fact, the worst way to cook it, resulting in a mushy and bland mess. She explained: “Sure, it’s super easy. But it often produces soggy, limp florets. And the longer it is cooked submerged in boiling water, the more nutrients it will lose.”
According to the expert, boiling the broccoli takes away its sugars, flavours, and nutritional value. However, roasting broccoli works wonders by unlocking its innate sweetness and creating a crispy texture that can make the vegetable much more appealing, the expert revealed.
Elizabeth explained: “Roasting broccoli is one of my favourite ways to prepare it! It always has so much flavour. And it makes a great side dish and can also be used warm or cold in salads.”
Not only does roasting intensify the taste, but it also conserves vital vitamins, making the vegetable more nutritious and enjoyable to eat. Roasted broccoli can be cooked in an oven or air fryer, and giving it a spritz of lemon juice can also improve its taste. Elizabeth suggested: “Jazz up your roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon juice.”
The natural sugars in lemon juice not only tenderise and caramelise broccoli for a better texture, but they also enhance its flavours, resulting in a more vibrant and refreshing taste.
Firstly, rinse and pat dry your broccoli before chopping it into florets. If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 220C.
Next, line a baking tray and arrange the broccoli on it. Ensure the florets are spread out in a single layer without overcrowding the tray.
Drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice over the broccoli, then season with salt and pepper. For added flavour , consider adding some garlic or powdered garlic granules.
If you’re using an oven, roast the broccoli for 20 to 25 minutes until it gets a crunchy texture. Alternatively, if you’re using an air fryer, cook at 200C for 10 to 12 minutes.
Once the broccoli is cooked, you’ll be left with a far more appealing side dish