Washing broccoli with just water is wrong! Here’s how to clean it safely.

**Instructions:**

1. **Cut the broccoli** into florets or manageable sections.
2. Fill a bowl with cold water and add the **salt and vinegar**.
3. Add the broccoli and gently swish it around.
4. Let it **soak for 10–15 minutes**. This helps dislodge dirt and drive out any insects hiding in the florets.
5. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove any remaining residue and vinegar smell.
6. Pat dry or air-dry before cooking.

📝 *Note: The salt helps loosen debris and dislodge bugs, while vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and pesticide remover.*

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#### 🍋 Method 2: Lemon & Baking Soda Rinse (Great for Fresh Taste)

If you prefer a more citrusy approach:

**You’ll Need:**

* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* Large bowl of water

Soak the broccoli the same way for 10–15 minutes, then rinse. The lemon adds freshness, and baking soda helps break down waxy residues and microbes.

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### ⚠️ Don’t Forget the Stems!

Broccoli stems are totally edible and delicious, especially when peeled and sliced. Scrub them gently and include them in your cleaning process — they often hold just as much dirt as the florets.

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### 👩‍🍳 Pro Tips

* **Use a veggie brush** to gently scrub larger stems.
* **Check the water after soaking** — you’ll often see dirt, grit, or even bugs that would’ve ended up in your food.
* **Don’t soak too long** (over 20 minutes) to avoid nutrient loss.
* Wash just before cooking or eating to keep broccoli fresh longer in storage.

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### In Summary

If you’ve been rinsing broccoli under the tap and calling it a day, it’s time to upgrade your routine. A **simple soak with salt and vinegar** or lemon and baking soda is all it takes to remove grime, pests, and pesticide residues — leaving you with **clean, safe, and delicious broccoli** every time.

Want to turn that freshly cleaned broccoli into a flavorful stir-fry or roasted side dish? I can help with that recipe too — just ask!