How can I freeze fresh broccoli?


Quick Answer

To freeze fresh broccoli, wash it in cold water, split it into florets if necessary, and boil the florets briefly. Immediately after boiling, the florets need to be immersed in ice water to stop the boiling process. The broccoli should then be spread out on a baking pan and frozen solid before going into a freezer-safe container.

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How can I freeze fresh broccoli?
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Full Answer

  1. Wash the broccoli

    Place the broccoli head or florets in a colander and run under cold running water. If your broccoli is very fresh from a farm or farmer's market, you may want to place it in a salt water brine for up to 30 minutes to remove any dirt and insects that may be hiding in the crevices.

  2. Split the broccoli into florets

    If your broccoli is not already cut into florets, use a sharp chef's knife to cu it pieces no more than 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide.

  3. Boil the broccoli

    Place the broccoli in a large pot of water and bring to a boil on the stove. Boil for two to three minutes.

  4. Place the broccoli in ice water.

    Drain the hot water from the broccoli and immediately plunge the florets into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Leave them in the cold water for two to three minutes.

  5. Freeze the broccoli

    Spread the broccoli florets out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Remove the baking sheet from the freezer and store the frozen broccoli in freezer bags or an air-tight freezer-safe container. Return the broccoli to the freezer and store for to 12 to 18 months.

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