How to Cook Frozen Broad Beans

You can cook frozen broad beans by simmering them in lightly salted water for a few minutes or by microwaving them briefly.

Cooking frozen broad beans is straightforward and quick, allowing you to enjoy their fresh flavour easily. The key is to cook them directly from frozen, following specific time guidelines to achieve the desired tenderness.

Cooking Methods

Based on the provided reference, there are two primary ways to cook frozen broad beans: simmering on the hob or microwaving.

Simmering Method

This is a traditional approach that yields tender broad beans ready for various dishes.

Steps:

1. Take the broad beans directly from the freezer.
2. Place them in a pan with lightly salted water.
3. Bring the water to a simmer.
4. Simmer gently until the beans are tender.

Approximate Cooking Time:

• 2-4 minutes

Ensure the water is just gently bubbling, not boiling vigorously, to cook the beans evenly without breaking them.

Microwaving Method

For a quicker option, especially for smaller portions, microwaving is an efficient alternative.

Steps:

1. Take the broad beans directly from the freezer.
2. Place them in a microwave-safe dish.
3. Add a small amount of water.
4. Cover and microwave.

Approximate Cooking Time:

• 2 minutes

Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your microwave's wattage, so it's advisable to check for tenderness and adjust if necessary.

Cooking Times Overview

Here's a quick summary of the cooking times based on the reference:

Method	Water Requirements	Time (Approx.)
Simmering	Lightly salted	2-4 minutes
Microwaving	Small amount	2 minutes

Always cook from frozen; there is no need to thaw the broad beans beforehand. Cook them just until they are tender for the best texture and flavour.