When vegetables are prepared using too much heat and water, they lose some vitamins and minerals. The key is to cook them quickly and with as little liquid as possible so these water-soluble nutrients aren't lost. Broccoli retains more vitamin C and the antioxidants called glucosinolates when steamed than when cooked in water, and it loses almost no folate. Use your Oster Food Steamer to prepare delicious and nutrient-rich broccoli.
Plug your Oster Food Steamer into an outlet.
Pour clean water into the water reservoir via the water inlet on the side of the steamer, ensuring the amount of water falls between the MAX and MIN lines marked on the water box.
Place the broccoli pieces (if frozen, do not thaw) into the center of the steaming bowl, trying not to block steam vents. Do not add sauces or other liquids to the bowl. If using a two-tiered Oster Food Steamer, place larger pieces of broccoli in the lower bowl; place the lower bowl on top of the drip tray and base, and then put smaller pieces in the upper bowl. You can also place the upper steaming bowl directly on top of the lower steaming bowl.
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Put the lid on your steamer.
Set the timer (located on the steamer) to the recommended cooking time. Smaller pieces of broccoli may cook in as little as five minutes; larger pieces or spears may take as long as 15 minutes, depending on how soft or crunchy you like cooked broccoli. Once the timer is set, a light will turn on and steam will appear in less than one minute. When the cooking time is complete, the light will turn off and a bell will sound.
Remove the lid when the timer goes off and use a long-handled fork or spoon to stir the broccoli. Test a piece of broccoli; if it is not cooked to your liking, replace the lid and reset the timer for another few minutes.