If you want to buy the freshest and most delicious broccoli from your local supermarket, it can be a challenge to tell exactly how you’re getting your money’s worth.

When do you know if broccoli is just right, and conversely, when you should be giving it a wide berth?

Thankfully, an expert in fruit and vegetables who knows exactly what to look for when picking the perfect broccoli from the shelves shared his top five tips.


Thanh Truong, a leading produce supplier for Australian grocers and restaurants, recently revealed insider secrets everyone should know when they hit the stores next time.


1. Take a look at the size of the broccoli’s beads

Ensure the beads of the broccoli are nice and even. If the beads are a mix of small and large sizes, this could indicate poor growth and the broccoli may be bitter.

'You should avoid broccoli with a mixture of small and large beads,' Thanh advised.

2. Are the stems thick?

A thicker stem usually means the veggie was grown properly and has lots of nutrients.

'A thicker stem means more nutrients went into it and the florets are going to taste better because it's a healthier plant,' Truong shared.

Likewise, be wary of thin stems as this could mean an inadequate exposure to moisture or too little air circulation.


3. Avoid yellow or orange buds, when you can

Avoid bright oranges and yellows as this is a sign of improper storage or a shortened shelf life.

'Of course, if broccoli becomes soft or yellow, it's still edible–and not to be wasted!' Truong said.

4. Watch out for loose florets

If you see florets that are breaking away from the main stem, then the broccoli is probably dehydrated, and the veggie won't be as crisp and crunchy.

Truong explained: 'Texture wise, it's going to be floppy. Broccoli that is firm will be much more crunchy.'



5. Are there flowering buds?

If you’re seeing your broccoli sporting flower buds, don’t go for it. Flowering buds mean that the broccoli was picked a little too late. In this case, it's best to steer clear of these and look for younger plants instead.

'If you see any broccoli buds that are protruding and about to flower–avoid them because it's a sign that the broccoli was harvested really mature and it's not going to be as tender as it could be.'


Many were grateful to Thanh for sharing his tips for the perfect broccoli!

'Thank you, I can't believe I never knew any of this!' one said.

While another exclaimed: 'I really appreciate these grocery tips, they're super helpful!'

You can watch the video of Thanh Truong giving advice below:


But after you go through the tedious process of picking broccoli, then comes the challenge of properly washing it. Check out this article on how to properly rinsing wash your broccoli before storing them!

Do you have any other tips when choosing broccoli at the market? Share them with us in the comments below!