How to Cook Broccoli in the Air Fryer
What is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that circulates hot air around food to cook it using little to no oil. It works by using convection cooking, meaning that the hot air is circulated around the food to create a crispy, crunchy layer without adding oil. Air fryers are perfect for cooking vegetables like broccoli, as they are cooked quickly and evenly and don’t need to be submerged in boiling water.
How to Prepare Broccoli for the Air Fryer
Before you start to cook your broccoli in the air fryer, it’s important to prepare it correctly. The best way to do this is to cut the broccoli into florets, ensuring that they are all of a similar size so they cook evenly. If you are using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed before cooking. Once the broccoli is prepared, you can season it with your favorite herbs and spices, or brush it with a little oil for added flavor.
How to Cook Broccoli in the Air Fryer
Once your broccoli is prepared and seasoned, it’s time to get cooking. Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. Once the air fryer is preheated, add your broccoli florets to the basket, making sure that they are not overcrowded. You can also add a little oil to the basket for added flavor. Finally, cook the broccoli for 8-10 minutes, or until it is crispy and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Once your broccoli is cooked, you can serve it as a side dish or as part of a main meal. Broccoli is a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and pasta dishes, and can be served with your favorite sauces and dips. For a simple, healthy meal, try pairing your air fryer broccoli with a lean protein like chicken or fish, and some roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Broccoli
For perfect air fryer broccoli, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your broccoli florets are all of a similar size for even cooking.
- Add a little oil to the basket to add flavor and keep the broccoli from sticking.
- Cook the broccoli for 8-10 minutes, or until it is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve the broccoli with your favorite sauces and dips.