How To Cook Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Purple sprouting broccoli (PSB) is one of spring's greatest treasures. Discover how to cook it to bring out its best qualities and enjoy this standout member of the brassica family. It's at its peak between February and April, although some varieties appear as early as January and linger into May.
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 26kcal
Ingredients
- 300 g purple sprouting broccoli
- pinch salt
- lemon juice (optional) or lime juice
- extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- butter (optional)
- garlic butter (optional)
Instructions
- Pour about a centimetre (half an inch) of water into a small to medium lidded pan and add a pinch of salt.pinch salt
- Place the stems in the water, but try to keep the heads above it. This means the thicker stems will cook fast in the water whilst the more delicate florets will steam more gently above the water.300 g purple sprouting broccoli
- Place the lid on the pan and bring it to the boil. Lower the temperature to a simmer and cook until tender. This will take 3 to 4 minutes. The stems should be tender, but still have a bit of a bite to them. If a knife slips in easily, they're done.
- Drain, the water, but don't throw it away, it's full of good things and tastes rather nice. You can drink it as is, add a little miso to it for a quick cup of miso soup or save it to add to gravy, stock, soups or stews.
- Serve the broccoli straight away whilst still hot. Eat it just as it is, add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, a drizzle of olive oil, a knob of butter or some garlic butter, if liked.
Notes
This amount of broccoli will serve 4 as a side dish and 2 as a more substantial meal.
For a light lunch, serve with a fried egg and some crispy chilli oil.
You’ll find additional tips and info about this recipe in the main body of the post.
Please note: calories and other nutritional information are per serving. They’re approximate and will depend on serving size and exact ingredients used. Please refer to my nutrition disclaimer for further information.
Nutrition
Calories: 26kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 34mg | Potassium: 237mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 467IU | Vitamin C: 67mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg