Learn how to cut a head of broccoli into florets with this simple, step-by-step tutorial for preparing broccoli. Stop wasting money at the grocery store on pre-cut florets and broccoli crowns and get all the expert tips for properly and easily cutting broccoli florets while minimizing waste.
Trim Broccoli: Place the head of broccoli on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to trim off and discard about 2-inches of the stem.
To Cut Broccoli into Florets with Long Stems:
Locate Stems: Arrange the head of broccoli up so that it is upside down, with the stem facing up. Next, look at the broccoli and locate the base of each floret – the place where the thin stem of the broccoli floret meets the thick main stem. Now, flip the broccoli back over so it is standing up on its own stem.
Cut Broccoli Florets: Then, use your knife to make a downward cut through where the stems intersect and all the way down through the stem, freeing the floret with a long stem from the head of broccoli. Rotate the broccoli clockwise or counterclockwise and repeat making downward cuts all around the head of broccoli until you reach the very top (the crown).
Cut the Crown: Once you reach the top of the head, use your knife to cut the large floret in half or quarters, depending upon the size. (Tip: Try to make all the florets similar in size to ensure even cooking.)
Rinse and Use: Place the broccoli florets into a colander and rinse with cool water before drying thoroughly and using in recipes or eating raw.
To Cut Broccoli into Florets with Short Stems:
Locate Florets: Arrange the head of broccoli up so that it is upside down, with the stem facing up. Next, look at the broccoli and locate the florets – the parts of the broccoli that resemble little flowers.
Cut Broccoli into Small Florets: Now, use your knife to make an angled cut just below the floret– freeing the small floret without a stem from the head of broccoli. Rotate the head of broccoli clockwise or counterclockwise and repeat making angled cuts all the head of broccoli, working from the outside of the head in towards the stem.
Cut the Crown: Once you reach the top of the broccoli, use your knife to cut the large floret in half. Then quarter or pull the floret apart, depending upon the size. (Tip: Try to make all the florets similar in size to ensure even cooking.)
Rinse and Use: Place the broccoli florets into a colander and rinse with cool water before drying thoroughly and using in recipes or eating raw.
Notes
Storage: Store cut broccoli florets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Alternatively, place the cut broccoli into freezer storage bags and store in the freezer for up to 10 months.
Nutritional information is an estimate based upon 4 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.