Broccoli stems

[juliaintheclouds]

I've heard recently that broccoli stems are edible. I've always chopped them off and tossed them, but if they are edible that seems wasteful. Anyone know any tips on preparing them or some good recipes?

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

Just cook them the same way as you cook the bit you count as broccoli. Serve them the dame way as well.

 

[Caribbean girl]

I know that broccoli stems are edible as I have eaten them before, especially at restaurants. However, I have a habit of cutting them off and tossing them in the waste. If I were to cook them, I would just cut them up and put them in the vegetable steamer to steam the same way that I would cook the other part of the broccoli. When I think about it, they do not taste bad either. I think I will start using them again.

 

[Ella]

I've always eaten broccoli stems. Some can be quite tough, so chop them finely and it depends what you are cooking; in a pie or with pasta small pieces work well or as a side dish they are fine by themselves.

If you don't like eating them as they are, chop them finely and then saute them as a filling with other vegetables for an omelet or with rice.

 

[juliaintheclouds]

I did a little experiment last night and I peeled off a little bit of the tough exterior and than chopped the stem into coin shapes like you would with a carrot. I then fried them all up with the florets in butter and salt. It was really good and actually added a nice crunch which made an interesting textural experience! Also it almost doubled the volume of veggies which was a nice bonus.