To steam broccoli without a steamer, the easiest way is to use a pot on the stove with a lid and a small amount of water:
- Add about 1 to 2 inches of water to the bottom of a pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Place the broccoli florets directly into the pot, either standing on their stems or just spread out.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam.
- Reduce the heat to medium or medium-high and steam for about 3 to 7 minutes, depending on the size of the broccoli pieces and desired tenderness.
- Check by piercing the broccoli with a fork; it should be tender but still crisp and bright green.
- Remove the broccoli from the water immediately to stop cooking and serve as desired.
This method steams the broccoli in the boiling water’s steam without needing a special steamer basket or insert, making it simple and effective to get healthy, tender steamed broccoli.
