If you’re reading this guide on how to chop broccoli right now, don’t feel too bad. You may already have a technique that isn’t necessarily working for you, and you might want a more foolproof one. Cutting broccoli into florets will become second nature once you know how to. Here’s a simplified version, no matter what level you’re cooking at.

Method

    1. 1Prepare the broccoli

      Rinse the broccoli under cold water to clean it. Trim off any leaves or thick stems at the base. Or don’t. The whole plant is edible – and delicious!

      Step 1

    2. Cut off the main stalk

      Place the broccoli head on your cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut off the large, thick stalk at the bottom, leaving just the head of the broccoli.

      Step 2

    3. Separate the florets

      To create individual florets, make a series of incisions along the natural branches of the broccoli. Hold the broccoli head and carefully slice between the florets, following the natural lines to separate them into smaller clusters.

      Step 3

    4. Trim the larger florets

      If any of the florets are too large, you can trim them into smaller, bite-sized pieces by cutting them down the middle or into smaller sections.

      Step 4

    5. Trim the stem

      Cut off any excess stem attached to each floret or keep them on. You can also cut them off and cut into smaller pieces so they cook quicker.

      Step 5

    6. Chef’s tip:

      For even cooking, try to make the florets about the same size so they cook evenly.
      The stalk is edible! You can peel off the tough outer layer and slice the inner part to use in soups, stir-fries, or salads.

      Step 6

    Related Recipes

    Register

    Comments