Microwave-Safe Plastic Wrap

• A polyethelene-based wrap labeled for use in the microwave is your best option for steaming broccoli. For best results, place the broccoli and a few tablespoons of water on a plate or in a bowl, then cover that dish with the plastic wrap. Do not wrap the broccoli tightly or leave the wrap in close contact with the food. While plastic wrap does not release toxic material in the microwave, it can melt when it touches food. This problem is worst when the food contains fat or sugar. If you wish to add oil or sauces to your broccoli, apply them after steaming.

Ordinary Plastic Wrap

• While most modern plastic wraps are labeled as microwave-safe, some cheaper brands might not be formulated for this kind of use. Avoid using a wrap of unknown composition, since polyvinyl chloride plastics do pose some possible health risks when you expose them to heat. Even plastic wrap made from safe materials can melt or adhere to the broccoli if it was not designed for microwave use. If you must steam broccoli with an unknown plastic wrap, make sure that you provide at least 1 inch of headroom between the food and the wrap.

Shrink-Wrapped Broccoli

• Some stores offer their broccoli shrink-wrapped in a material designed to keep it fresh and prevent the vegetable from drying out. It can be tempting to steam the broccoli directly in this plastic wrap, but this practice isn't safe. Packagers use many different kinds of plastic for this purpose and wrap the broccoli too tightly for safe steaming.

Plastic Bag Steaming

• Specialty plastic bags make steaming broccoli both simple and safe. These bags are designed to withstand microwave heat without releasing any chemicals or changing shape. Many of these products come with instructions for steaming broccoli and other vegetables printed directly on the bag. Do not substitute ordinary plastic zipper or grocery bags. They have not been tested for use in the microwave and could pose a potential hazard.