Washing and Storing Broccoli the right way

Broccoli is a great vegetable rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It is nutritious and low in calories hence is perfect for people who are on diet. But the nutrition of this vegetable diminishes if boiled, so it should be either eaten raw or steamed, or stir-fried. Storing this vegetable is a bit tricky. If stored using improper method, it can turn unappetizing in a day or two. However, with some simple storage practices, you can keep it crisp and garden-fresh for about 6-7 days.

Here are some ways to store Broccoli:

• • Broccoli is a cold-weather vegetable. Therefore should be stored in the refrigerator. It might last outside for 2-3 days but will break down fast.
  • Never leave broccoli exposed to dry refrigerator air. It will leave it wilted.Avoid keeping it in a sealed container.
  • One of the simplest ways to store Broccoli is to put it in a plastic bag. Ensure to take a bag that is big enough to give broccoli some space to breathe. Poke some holes in the plastic bag near its head. It is necessary as just like other vegetables broccoli releases ethylene gas. If stored in a tight bag without holes, the ethylene gas will get trapped inside leading to a faster breakdown of this vegetable.
  • Another perfectly healthy and breathable way to store broccoli is to loosely wrap it in a damp paper towel and store it in the refrigerator. Don’t wash it as excess moisture can encourage the growth of mold. Never wrap broccoli too tight because it needs airflow to stay fresh. 
  • Fill a glass jar with about half inches of water and place broccoli into it. Ensure that the end of the stem is submerged and the crown or the bushy part is peeking out of the glass. Store this in the fridge. The broccoli will be crisp and fresh and last easily for a week. Change the water of the glass jar every day.

Tips to follow while buying Broccoli:

• • Always buy firm broccoli that has closed buds and a dark-green crown. Avoid picking yellowing broccoli.
  • The stem should not be dried out or shriveled. It should be fresh and moist.

Washing Broccoli:

• • Avoid washing broccoli if you are planning to store it. Wash it just before use.
  • Fill a large bowl of cold water. Soak it for 2-3 minutes and dump it in the vegetable colander. The soaking water will drain out. Later give it a good rinse under running water.
  • If you feel that broccoli might have bugs or worms, add 1/3 cup of Vinegar to 3 cups of cold water and soak it in this solution for a few minutes. Later rinse it under running water thoroughly.