Want to know if you should wash and clean broccoli before you cook or store them?
In this guide, we will answer the above questions, as provide in-depth information that will help you understand the importance of ensuring that your broccoli is clean before you cook.
So, with that out of the way, let’s get right into it.
Should You Wash Broccoli Before Cooking?
Quick Answer: Yes, even if you planning on roasting or steaming, you should always wash broccoli before you cook it.
It is very important to wash broccoli before cooking it, as like other fruits and vegetables, it is often grown outdoors in soil and is generally exposed to a variety of contaminants.
After harvesting, excess soil can be embedded on the leaves, stalk and crown of the vegetable.
There is also the possibility of chemicals from pesticides, small insects and a host of other foreign matter being on the broccoli.
Even if the vegetable is pre-washed, still take the time to clean it yourself to as you can’t be certain that it is 100% clean.
Should You Wash Broccoli Before Storing It?
Washing depends on the storage method.
Freezing. If you plan on freezing broccoli, it should be washed and blanched before being storing.
Refrigerator. If you are not going to be using the broccoli right away and plan on storing it in the refrigerator, ideally you should not wash it before placing it inside.
When broccoli that has been washed is not dried properly and placed in the refrigerator, the moisture allows for the quick growth of mold, which will speed up the spoilage of the vegetable.
If it was washed and you plan on storing it in the refrigerator, ensure that it is dried properly before storage.
How to Wash Broccoli Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide
Washing broccoli is not overly-complicated.
However, because of the possibility of contaminants on the vegetable, it is extremely important that it is cleaned properly.
Below are the steps needed to properly wash and clean broccoli.
1. Wash Your Hands
Before you start washing the broccoli, it is important that your hands are clean. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water before and after preparation.
2. Check The Broccoli
The broccoli should be examined and any excess leaves, stems or visible contaminants that may have found its way on to the veggie should be removed.
3. Do a Thorough Rinse
Put the broccoli in colander or container and place it under the running water of your kitchen faucet.
Here you will do a quick rinse for about for a couple of seconds, using your hands to dislodge and remove any dirt or contaminants.
If your kitchen faucet has a spray attachment, you can use that, as the strong stream of water will help to remove anything that may be on the vegetable.
4. Dry Properly (If Storing)
If you will not be cooking the broccoli after washing, ensure that it is dried properly before storage in the refrigerator.
Excess moisture allows for the growth of bacteria, which will lead to the broccoli spoiling quickly once stored in the refrigerator.
To dry, take some paper towels or a clean kitchen town and gently dab around the vegetable until you have removed all the moisture.
Alternatively, if you have a salad spinner, you could place the broccoli in it to remove any excess water that may be hiding in the crevices and bumps of the vegetable.
Check out the video below for a visual guide to cleaning broccoli.
Wrapping it up
Now that you have reached the end of this article, you should have a better understanding as to why it’s important to always clean and wash broccoli before using it.
Now, I want to hear from you.
Was there anything this article didn’t answer? Did you have any other questions?
If so, let me know in the comments below.
