How to freeze broccoli

Wondering how to freeze broccoli? Broccoli is tasty, versatile and full of nutrients, so totally worth having to hand in your freezer. Easy to add to stir-fries, soups, or even for snacking, this vegetable can retain its great flavour and crunchy texture – if you blanch it first. Don't freeze broccoli without blanching, as it will develop a bitter flavour and unpleasant, drab texture. Check out the best method to freeze this veggie right below.

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How to freeze broccoli

To freeze broccoli successfully, follow these steps:

1. Clean the broccoli. Do this by submerging the broccoli head in cold water for a couple of minutes. Then rinse.

2. Cut the broccoli florets off the stems. You can discard the stems, but they do taste good, too – you'll just need to peel them with a potato peeler.

3. Blanch the broccoli florets and stems: bring a pan of water to a boil, add the broccoli. Bring back to boil and boil for two minutes. Drain.

4. Transfer into an ice bath until the broccoli is completely cool. Pat dry with a paper towel.

5. Spread over a baking sheet and place into the freezer for a couple of hours. This will prevent the different pieces from sticking together.  

6. Transfer into an airtight container or sealed bag. Return to the freezer. The broccoli will keep in a freezer for up to eight months.

• How to cook broccoli