Fresh broccoli. . .need to cook before freezing?

[JanuaryBride]

Hi there! I am leaving town for a week and don't think we will get to the broccoli in the fridge. That said, I was going to cut it up into florets and freeze it. . .but should I steam it or boil it for a few minutes before freezing???

[tasb]

Here are the directions from our Freezing Guide it is in the Threads of Interest thread

Broccoli
Preparation � Select firm, young, tender stalks with compact heads. Remove leaves and woody portions. Separate heads into convenient-size sections and immerse in brine (4 teaspoons salt to 1 gallon water) for 30 minutes to remove insects. Split lengthwise so flowerets are no more than 1 1/2 inches across.
Water blanch 3 minutes in boiling water or steam blanch 5 minutes.
Cool promptly, drain and package, leaving no headspace. Seal and freeze.

Read more: http://www.food.com/bb/viewtopic.zsp?t=106869#ixzz1svZXZbEg

[JanuaryBride]

Awesome - thank you!!!

[mickeydownunder]

tasb wrote:
Here are the directions from our Freezing Guide it is in the Threads of Interest thread

Broccoli
Preparation � Select firm, young, tender stalks with compact heads. Remove leaves and woody portions. Separate heads into convenient-size sections and immerse in brine (4 teaspoons salt to 1 gallon water) for 30 minutes to remove insects. Split lengthwise so flowerets are no more than 1 1/2 inches across.
Water blanch 3 minutes in boiling water or steam blanch 5 minutes.
Cool promptly, drain and package, leaving no headspace. Seal and freeze.

Read more: http://www.food.com/bb/viewtopic.zsp?t=106869#ixzz1svZXZbEg

If it's bought from a fruit and veg place, can't I just skip the brine process and just blanch?

Thanks in advance...will be in this forum a little more now

WHOO HOO!