Broccoli has a mixed reputation among food lovers. While some do not prefer its taste, others love it because of its high nutritional value. Food experts Emma and Jan Valdez have shared a way to cook the green vegetable “perfectly.”

According to the experts, the technique for making perfect Broccoli lies not in the way you cook it but in the way you cut it. The food experts shared in their blog for thekitchn that the most important step for evenly cooked broccoli is cutting it correctly. They wrote: “Trim the stem of the broccoli as close as you can get to the crown (the top piece) and separate into bite-sized florets.”

The experts suggested cutting the broccoli’s stem crosswise and as close to the crown as possible.

The crown will naturally break into several large florets. Slice the trunk of each floret into bite-sized pieces, then place them in a bowl and rinse under water to remove any grit.

They explained: “The main stem is fully edible, so trim off any leaves or blemishes.

“If preferred, peel off the tougher outer layer, though this step is optional. Discard the bottom inch, then slice the remaining stem into thin disks.

“Since stems take longer to cook than florets, keep them in a separate bowl and rinse thoroughly.”

Cutting the Crown & Florets:

Slice straight through the stem, as close to the crown as possible.

The crown will naturally break into large florets.

Cut the trunk of each floret to create bite-sized pieces.

Place them in a bowl and rinse them under water to remove any grit.

Preparing the Stem:

The broccoli stem is entirely edible, so don’t discard it!

Remove any leaves or blemishes.

If desired, peel off the tougher outer layer for a softer texture.

Slice off the bottom inch and discard it, as it's usually tough.

Cut the remaining stems into thin disks, since stems take longer to cook than florets.

Place them in a separate bowl and rinse under water.