How to Steam Broccoli in an Instant Pot with Steamer Basket - Home Sweet Table - Healthy, fresh, and simple family-friendly recipes (2024)

August 23, 2021 by Stacy Leave a Comment

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How to Steam Broccoli in an Instant Pot with Steamer Basket to get perfectly cooked broccoli every time. Easy, tender, and ready in just 8 minutes!

What is America’s favorite vegetable? According to Green Giant‘s annual Favorite Veggie Survey, broccoli got the number one spot! Are you as surprised as I am? I like broccoli and all, but I don’t know if I would go so far as saying it is my favorite. The brand polled over 5,000 Americans to come up with these findings.

I like my broccoli either raw with some ranch dip or steamed. How about you? This method will give you perfect Instant Pot broccoli every time. How long to steam broccoli in Instant Pot? It requires only 1 minute of cook time! A couple of minutes of prep time and you get perfect tender broccoli that is ready in 8 minutes.

Ingredients

The only ingredient needed is broccoli. You can buy broccoli crowns or a bag of broccoli florets.

How to Steam Broccoli in an Instant Pot with Steamer Basket

1. Add ¾ cup water to the Instant Pot. Place a steamer basket or trivet into the Instant Pot. Add broccoli.
2. Close and lock the lid and switch the valve to “sealing. First, press the “pressure cook” button second, press the “pressure level” button. Adjust the pressure to low pressure. Using the + and – buttons, adjust the cooking time to 1 minute (You will cook broccoli on low pressure for just 1 minute).
3. Once the cooking time is over manually release the pressure immediately. To do so, switch the valve to “venting.” Once pressure is completely released and the red pressure gauge is down, open the lid. Remove the steamer basket using an oven mitt.
4. Season broccoli as desired. Serve.

How to Steam Broccoli in Instant Pot Without Basket

If you don’t have a steam basket, use the trivet that comes with the Instant Pot. This helps to keep the broccoli off the bottom of the machine and out of the water which will lead to mussy broccoli.

Here are some steamer basket options for the Instant Pot:

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What to Serve with Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli is the perfect addition to chicken, steak, pork, and fish. Broccoli also pairs well with pasta dishes and can be added to pasta dishes and soups.

Can you Freeze Steamed Broccoli?

You can freeze steamed broccoli to eat later. But make sure it is cooled all the way before storing. Store in a freezer bag or vacuum-sealed bag.

To reheat, sprinkle frozen broccoli with water and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot and tender.

How do you Make Steamed Broccoli Taste Better?

Steamed broccoli’s flavor can be enhanced with a little oil like olive oil, avocado oil, or butter. Simply sprinkle with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning. I love to sprinkle the broccoli with my homemade lemon pepper seasoning. It’s also good with garlic and parmesan cheese.

Can you Steam Broccoli That’s Frozen?

You can steam frozen broccoli the same way as fresh. The only difference is you will adjust the cooking time to “0 minutes” to prevent broccoli from getting overcooked and mushy.

How to Steam Frozen Broccoli in Instant Pot

1. Add ¾ cup water to the Instant Pot. Place a steamer basket or trivet into the Instant Pot. Add broccoli.
2. Close and lock the lid and switch the valve to “sealing. First, press the “pressure cook” button second, press the “pressure level” button. Adjust the pressure to low pressure. Using the + and – buttons, adjust the cooking time to 0 minutes (You will cook broccoli on low pressure for just 0 minute).
3. Once the cooking time is over, manually release the pressure immediately. To do so, switch the valve to “venting.” Once pressure is completely released and the red pressure gauge is down, open the lid. Remove the steamer basket using an oven mitt.
4. Season broccoli as desired. Serve.

Is Broccoli Anti-Inflammatory?

Broccoli contains sulforaphane which is an antioxidant that fights inflammation.

Is Broccoli That’s Steamed Healthy?

Broccoli contains fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, iron, and potassium. Gentle steaming may provide the most health benefits.

How to Store Cooked Broccoli

Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

More Instant Pot Recipes

• Mexican Shredded Chicken
• Thai Butternut Squash Soup
• Creamy Chipotle Chicken Soup