Air fryer magic: transform frozen broccoli into a culinary delight
What To Know
- Spread the broccoli florets evenly in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of dried herbs to the broccoli before air frying.
- To reheat in the microwave, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe container and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
Craving crispy, flavorful broccoli without the hassle of boiling or steaming? Look no further than your air fryer! This convenient kitchen appliance makes it a breeze to enjoy frozen broccoli with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to frozen broccoli in air fryer:
Ingredients
- 1 bag (1 pound) frozen broccoli florets
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Olive oil (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Season Broccoli: If desired, toss the frozen broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Spread Broccoli in Basket: Spread the broccoli florets evenly in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air Fry: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and golden brown.
5. Shake Basket: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
6. Check for Doneness: Insert a fork into the thickest part of a broccoli floret. It should pierce easily.
7. Serve Immediately: Remove the broccoli from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Tips
- Use frozen broccoli florets: For best results, use frozen broccoli florets that have not been thawed.
- Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference.
- Cook in batches: If necessary, cook the broccoli in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Add a drizzle of oil: A small amount of olive oil helps crisp up the broccoli.
Benefits of Air Fryer Broccoli
- Quick and convenient: Air fryer broccoli cooks in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
- Crispy texture: The air fryer circulates hot air, resulting in a crispy outer layer.
- Nutrient-rich: Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile: Air fryer broccoli can be enjoyed as a side dish, added to salads, or incorporated into other recipes.
Variations
- Garlic Parmesan Broccoli: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic over the broccoli before air frying.
- Lemon Herb Broccoli: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of dried herbs to the broccoli before air frying.
- Buffalo Broccoli: Toss the broccoli with your favorite buffalo sauce before air frying.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer broccoli is a quick, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a crispy snack, this air fryer recipe is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different seasonings and variations to find your perfect broccoli combination.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh broccoli in my air fryer?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, but you will need to blanch it first. To blanch broccoli, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli and pat it dry before air frying.
2. How do I store leftover air fryer broccoli?
Store leftover air fryer broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I reheat air fryer broccoli?
Yes, you can reheat air fryer broccoli in the air fryer or microwave. To reheat in the air fryer, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and air fry for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. To reheat in the microwave, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe container and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
