The Secret to Stopping Broccoli From Smelling When Cooking

The bright green stalks and florets of a bunch of broccoli are bursting with nutrients, including vitamin C, protein, fiber and calcium. Broccoli is also low in calories — a half-cup serving contains just 23 calories.

When cooking broccoli, you might notice a sulfur-like odor: This odor indicates that you may have purchased a less-than-fresh bunch of broccoli from your supermarket or local farm stand.

Fortunately, you can use a few tips when cooking your broccoli to stop the vegetable from smelling as badly while retaining its vitamins and minerals.

1. Place a piece of sandwich bread, ripped or cut into quarters, into the bottom of a cooking pot. The bread helps absorb odors.
2. Set a steamer basket into the pot and add just enough water that the bottom edge of the steamer basket is wet. You only need 1 to 2 inches of water to steam vegetables.
3. Turn the stove's burner to high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
4. Cut the broccoli into small pieces, separating large bunches of florets.
5. Place the broccoli into the steamer basket.
6. Cover the pot and steam the vegetable for 3 to 4 minutes. Overcooked broccoli can develop an unpleasant odor as it cooks.
7. Remove the cover if the broccoli begins to smell before it's completely cooked to allow the odor to dissipate into the air.