How to freeze broccoli, a simple and easy way to freeze broccoli, with no hassle, and hardly any time!
Ever buy a bunch a broccoli and realize you won’t be able to eat it in time? That’s me all the time!
I typically buy broccoli that is already cut up, but even when I buy an entire head of broccoli, I always have leftovers that either need to be eaten ASAP or frozen!
Although I love using fresh shredded broccoli in my coleslaw, I love using frozen broccoli is my easy cheesy broccoli dish.
How to freeze broccoli?
- Cut broccoli into florets
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes
- Remove from boiling water and stick in an ice bath
- Drain broccoli then place on a small baking sheet- it’s okay if the pieces overlap
- Stick in the freezer for 1 hr
- After an hour place in freezer safe container and return to the freezer
How long does frozen broccoli last?
If blanched then frozen, you can freeze for several months!
Can you freeze broccoli without blanching?
Yes, however, the broccoli will lose their bright color, some nutrients, and loose some of their texture.
How do you blanch fresh broccoli?
- Bring water to a boil in a med/large pan.
- Add broccoli florets to boiling water and boil for 1-2 minutes. Until the broccoli turns bright green.
- Remove from boiling water and place in an ice bath or run cold water over it until it is cooled. This will stop the broccoli from continue cooking.
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How to freeze broccoli?
Ingredients
- 16 oz Broccoli
- Water for Blanching
Instructions
- Cut broccoli into florets, removing any long stems
- In a med/large pot heat water until boiling
- Add broccoli to the boiling water for 1-2 minutes, it should turn a brighter green color.
- Remove from boiling water and stick in an ice bath or place under running cold water.*
- Drain broccoli then place on a small baking sheet- it’s okay if the pieces overlap a little
- Stick in the freezer for 1 hr. After an hour place in freezer safe container and return to the freezer.
- Freeze for a few months, best when eaten in a casserole, or roasted.
Notes
- *Placing the broccoli in ice water or under cold running water stops the broccoli form cooking.
- Frozen broccoli is great when reheated/cooked with some butter, or try my easy cheesy broccoli recipe!
- Find out here how to tell if broccoli is bad!
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