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How to Make Frozen Vegetables Crispy: A Guide to Roasted Frozen Broccoli

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to turn frozen vegetables into a delightfully crispy dish, look no further than Liz Moody’s roasted broccoli recipe. This method is not only simple; it’s a game changer for your weeknight meals.

The Common Challenge of Frozen Veggies

Frozen vegetables are incredibly convenient and versatile. However, they often come out soggy when sautéed or roasted on their own. While they work well in casseroles and soups without affecting texture, transforming them into crispy delights has been a challenge—until now.

The Recipe for Crispy Roasted Frozen Broccoli

Liz Moody, a podcaster and cookbook author, shared her secret for achieving perfectly roasted frozen broccoli. According to her, the key is to begin roasting the broccoli without any oil or seasoning. This allows moisture to evaporate, preventing the sogginess that often plagues frozen vegetables.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 375°F if you’re using a convection oven).
2. Spread the frozen broccoli evenly on a sheet pan.
3. Roast for about 30 minutes or until the broccoli starts to brown at the bottom. If you’re using a convection oven, check around the 20-minute mark.
4. Once roasted, drizzle with olive oil and add your choice of seasonings. Toss to coat and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

The result? Broccoli that is perfectly brown on the bottom and vibrant green on top, ready to complement your favorite protein, whether that’s salmon or chicken thighs.

The Science Behind the Crunch

Moody’s technique is based on a bit of kitchen science. The initial roasting phase allows the frozen broccoli to thaw and any trapped moisture to evaporate, which is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch.

One of EatingWell’s associate editorial directors, Carolyn Malcoun, tested this method and was initially skeptical. However, after considering the science and adjusting the cooking time and temperature to fit her oven, she found that her broccoli came out crunchy and flavorful. She tossed hers with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika before the final roasting.

Experimenting with Other Vegetables

Now that you know how to make crispy roasted broccoli, don’t hesitate to try this method with other frozen veggies. Cauliflower is a great option, and various seasonings can be used to add different flavors. You could serve the roasted vegetables with a smoky yogurt sauce for dipping, or incorporate a fresh spice blend to elevate the dish.

The Takeaway

With this easy roasting method, you can make frozen broccoli a staple in your meal prep, ensuring you always have a healthy side dish on hand. Plus, given its benefits—packed with antioxidants and vitamin K—having frozen broccoli ready in the freezer is a significant win for your health.

So, next time you’re looking for a new way to enjoy frozen vegetables, give this roasted broccoli technique a try. You might just find yourself reaching for the frozen aisle more often!

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