Why isn’t rinsing with water enough?

Broccoli florets are dense and compact, which means:

Dirt can get trapped inside
Chemical residues are hard to remove
Small insects may remain hidden

A quick surface rinse cannot reach these areas.

The correct way to clean broccoli

1. Cut into small pieces

Separate the broccoli into small florets using a knife or scissors. This allows for deeper cleaning.

2. Prepare the cleaning solution

In a large container, add:

1 tablespoon of salt
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 tablespoon of flour
Enough water to cover the broccoli

3. Mix well

Stir with your hand until all the ingredients dissolve completely.

4. Soak

Place the broccoli in the mixture and let it soak for 5–10 minutes.

Why does this method work?
Flour acts like a magnet, trapping dirt, insect eggs, and residues
Salt helps drive out insects and has a mild antibacterial effect
Baking soda helps remove pesticide residues

Together, they create a much more effective cleaning process than water alone.
Final rinse

After soaking:

Gently move the broccoli around
Rinse it under running water

You’ll notice it looks cleaner, fresher, and brighter green.

Don’t throw away the stem

Many people discard the stem, but it is completely edible and nutritious.

How to prepare it:
Peel off the tough outer layer
Cut it into small pieces
Use it in stir-fries, soups, or side dishes

It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture.

Recipe 1: Baked Broccoli with Eggs and Cheese
Ingredients:

Cleaned broccoli
3 eggs
Black pepper
2–4 tablespoons of yogurt or cream
50 g grated cheese
Oil

Instructions:

see continuation on next page