Broccoli is a loved and hated food: there are those who find them very tasty and those who consider them unappetizing. They offer essential nutrients to our body, but not everyone likes their strong smell.
However, they have an advantage over other vegetables, which is that they keep a long time and are available on the market for much of the year.
How long does cooked broccoli keep?
We can buy them fresh and keep them in the refrigerator. They keep a couple of weeks raw, but once cooked the storage time is reduced to 9 days. The secret is to keep them in the right way , possibly covered.
Broccoli is rich in nutrients, in particular flavonoids, useful for counteracting the cellular damage typical of aging.
How to store broccoli correctly?
It is important to follow some precautions to keep them fresh longer. Typically, broccoli is sold wrapped in plastic wrap. It is better not to deprive them of this wrapping until the moment of consumption, otherwise, they will spoil sooner.
Once the film has been removed, it is better to keep the leftover part in a container that will be closed with a lid to limit contact with the air and in the refrigerator.
This will prevent the oxidation of flavonoids, nutrients that have been shown to be useful in the prevention of various diseases. These substances are also linked to a lower risk of cellular damage from aging, therefore to a slowing down of cancerous processes.
Can we preserve cooked broccoli?
As we said, we can keep the broccoli even after cooking. However, it is important to place them in a closed container, which will be placed in the refrigerator. This way they can last 9 days maximum.
It should be borne in mind, however, that with the passing of the days, the organoleptic characteristics will begin to deteriorate. To avoid this, it will be good to consume cooked broccoli within two or three days.
How to freeze broccoli?
For optimal freezing of broccoli:
- Remove the leaves.
- Dip the broccoli in a bowl with cold water and salt.
- You can now chop them into the portions you prefer.
- Cook them for about three minutes in boiling water. No more, otherwise, they lose vitamins and other nutrients.
- Once cooked, dip them in cold water to lower the temperature.
- Finally, you can store them in the freezer in an airtight container or in a special bag.
When you decide to prepare them, it will not be necessary to defrost them. It is advisable to throw them directly in boiling water or in a pan to finish cooking.
Broccoli can be kept in the freezer for 9 months-one years. After this period of time, they will begin to lose their properties and their flavor will deteriorate.
Freeze the broccoli for regular consumption
Crucifers are vegetables rich in beneficial properties, broccoli in particular. For this reason, we invite you to introduce them on a regular basis in your diet. The ways to prepare them are different.
Don’t forget, therefore, that you can also freeze them, always after cooking them. Once placed in the freezer, it will not be necessary to leave them at room temperature to thaw them; you can cook them directly.
They are present all year round on the market bench and, once frozen, can last up to 12 months. You have no more excuses for not stocking them up.
