Broccoli is an excellent compliment to any meal. The mix of cinnamon and garlic creates a distinct and tasty seasoning that will spice up your broccoli and make it taste great! Learn how to make this cinnamon broccoli recipe.
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Whenever I’m sick of the same old sauteed broccoli recipe I like to experiment with new seasonings. Garlic and cinnamon is a combination that tastes great on sweet potatoes so I wanted to see how it would enhance the flavor of broccoli.
To my delight, cinnamon broccoli has become one of the best broccoli recipes I have made. What’s even better is this recipe contains just 5 ingredients and is great for anyone in need of paleo broccoli recipes as well as keto broccoli recipes.
So if you want some new broccoli dish recipes this cinnamon broccoli recipe is great for you.
Types of broccoli
Broccoli is a green vegetable part of the cabbage family and is known as Brassica oleracea var. Italica. It resembles a little tree with a thick light green stalk with dark green leaves and a head of flowers that are all edible.
There are 3 types of broccoli. They include
- Calabrese broccoli
- Sprouting broccoli
- Purple cauliflower or violet cauliflower
Broccoli can be eaten raw or cooked.
What does broccoli taste like?
The taste of broccoli varies. Raw broccoli is crunchy with a bitter yet somewhat sweet taste. Cooked broccoli is sweeter and can also be softer, crispy, or crunchy depending on how it’s prepared.
What look for when you pick broccoli
If you want to avoid ending up with bad broccoli here are some times on what to look for when picking out your broccoli.
Look at the color of the head or florets. They should be the same color: a bright even green. If you see yellow or brown spots on any part of the broccoli this will tell you this veggie will not last in your fridge and is already going bad.
A white or black fuzzy patch indicates mold. So avoid broccoli with this on its florets or stems.
Follow these tips to find broccoli good enough to eat.
What is cinnamon?
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum family. It is often used in cooking and baking for its sweet flavor without any added sugar.
What is cinnamon powder?
Cinnamon powder is typically the form that cinnamon is in when used in cooking. The strips of inner bark are dried until they curl up into rolls or sticks. These sticks will then be ground into a fine powder.
Types of cinnamon
There are a number of types of cinnamon. The most common is
- Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese cinnamon)
- C. verum (Ceylon cinnamon from Sri Lanken)
- C. loureiroi (Saigon or Vietnamese cinnamon)
Cinnamomum cassia is cheaper and considered lower-quality cinnamon. It is a dark brow-red color and has a rough texture
If you’re wondering what is Ceylon cinnamon and what is Saigon cinnamon here is the lowdown on them:
What is Ceylon cinnamon?
Ceylon is made from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum. It is a tan-brown color and is made up of tight sticks with soft layers. This complex structure is what gives Ceylon cinnamon a higher quality making it more expensive than Cassia cinnamon.
The lower levels of cinnamaldehyde, a naturally occurring essential oil in cinnamon give it a milder flavor than the cassia.
What is Saigon cinnamon?
Saigon cinnamon or Vietnamese cinnamon is a cassia species that comes from the bark of the Cinnamomum loureiroi tree. This type of cinnamon contains more cinnamaldehyde than Ceylon.
This gives the cinnamon a stronger flavor than other Ceylon cinnamon.
What is cinnamon good for?
Cinnamon is a great seasoning to use in cooking and baking. It gives a natural sweetness without any added sugar.
You can add it to oatmeal, soups, stews, meats, baking, and roasted vegetables.
Type of cinnamon to use in this recipe
Ceylan cinnamon is usually recommended for its high quality. However, it can be expensive so if you can find a Cassia variety that is good as well.
Nutritional value of cinnamon
Here is a breakout of the cinnamon nutrition facts for one teaspoon of ground cinnamon:
- 6 calories
- Less than 1 gram of protein
- Less than 1 gram of fat
- 2 grams carbohydrates
- 1 gram fiber
- 26 mg iron
- 2 mg phosphorus
- 11 mg potassium
When it comes to how many calories in cinnamon this is a low-calorie food. There is also very little protein, fat, and carbs in cinnamon.
The nutrients and antioxidants found in cinnamon may benefit health.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
If you’re wondering is “cinnamon good for you?” and “What does cinnamon do for your health?” The answer is yes, and here are some of the potential benefits of cinnamon.
cinnamon and cinnamon powder benefits stem from their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. That is why this food has been associated with improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
Cinnamon’s benefits for skin have not been proven but there is some research that shows this food has antimicrobial properties and the potential to heal wounds. This is why it has been associated with anti-aging.
This spice was also found to contain cinnamaldehyde. This compound may increase metabolism and burn calories. That has made the use of cinnamon for weight loss a popular thing.
Even though there is no proof cinnamon can shed pounds it does make for a great sugar-free sweet spice to use in the place of sweeteners.
You also want to be aware of potential cautions with the use of cinnamon as well.
Potential Cinnamon Side Effects
Now that you know what are the benefits of cinnamon, you also want to be aware of the possible side effects of using cinnamon.
It is important to know the potential health benefits of eating cinnamon occur in smaller doses.
Large doses of cassia cinnamon contain the compound Coumarin. Having more than 1 teaspoon may cause harm, especially in those with liver and kidney problems.
Ceylon cinnamon has lower levels of Coumarin and may be a good substitute.
Cinnamon can also lower blood sugar. Those with diabetes or low blood sugar should be careful with their cinnamon intake. It can also interfere with antibiotics, diabetic drugs, blood thinners, and heart medications
Additionally, some people could be allergic or have a sensitivity and may get lip and mouth irritation.
If you’re unsure if you have any issues with cinnamon ask your healthcare provider.
Uses for Cinnamon in Food
When you think of this spice, the first thing that may come to mind is desserts. However, the uses of cinnamon surpass just baked goods. If you’re wondering, “What is cinnamon used for?” Here are some ideas:
- Sweeten your oatmeal without the sugar
- Add to chili powder and make a sweet and spicy marinade
- Add to your veggies
What Type of Cinnamon To Buy
Cassia cinnamon is the most common type you can find. If you need to have less Coumarin you can try Ceylon cinnamon.
If you’re curious, “Where can I find Ceylon cinnamon?” Here are some places* where you can find it:
- Amazon
- Local supermarket
- Specialty stores
*Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our disclosure statement.
Broccoli nutritional value
The broccoli nutrition data is measured in 100 grams per serving. This is about 1 cup of broccoli. There are differences in nutritional value when comparing raw vs cooked broccoli.
Here are the broccoli nutrition facts when both raw and cooked.
Raw broccoli nutrition information
A 100 grams of raw broccoli contains the following:
- 34 calories
- 3 grams protein
- 7 grams carbohydrates
- 3 grams fiber
- 0.37 grams fat
- 89 grams of vitamin C (100% of DV)
- 102 micrograms of vitamin K (85% of DV)
- 316 mg potassium (9% of DV)
Cooked broccoli nutrition information
A 100 grams of cooked broccoli contains the following
- 35 calories
- 3 grams protein
- 7 grams carbohydrates
- 3 grams fiber
- 0.41 grams fat
- 65 grams of vitamin C (72% of DV)
- 141 micrograms of vitamin K (117% of DV)
- 293 mg potassium (8% of DV)
Raw vs cooked broccoli calories and other nutrients
As you can see the calories in cooked broccoli are almost the same as raw broccoli. The calories in 1 cup of broccoli are between 34 and 35. If you are wondering how many calories are in a cup of broccoli no frets because both raw and cooked broccoli is a pretty low-calorie food.
When it comes to how much protein is in broccoli it is essentially the same. One cup of broccoli contains 3 grams of protein regardless of whether it is raw or cooked.
In both raw and cooked broccoli, there is less than 1 gram of fat in broccoli making it a very low-fat food. If you’re wondering how many carbs are in a cup of broccoli it doesn’t matter if it is cooked or raw the number of carbohydrates is the same about 7 grams per serving.
Potential benefits of eating broccoli
Broccoli’s nutrition information shows this vegetable contains many nutrients. Some research shows these minerals and vitamins in broccoli are associated with health.
Some potential broccoli health benefits include regulating blood sugar, blood pressure, and the immune system. Improvements in digestion and brain health have also been seen in animals who consumed broccoli.
The use of broccoli for weight loss has been researched but is not proven. One reason this food has been claimed to help lose weight because of its high fiber content. Fiber is a nutrient that may help with weight loss.
The potential health benefits of broccoli come from the sulfur-containing compounds glucosinolates, isothiocyanate, and sulforaphane. These are also what give broccoli its bitter taste.
The sulforaphane benefits are diminished when broccoli is boiled. Alternatively, steaming and stir-frying will keep them intact.
Potential side effects of broccoli
While most people will enjoy many benefits of eating broccoli daily, some individuals may experience side effects of broccoli consumption.
Due to the high fiber content, it may cause gas and bloat. This can also be one of the side effects of sulforaphane.
Cooking broccoli may help reduce these side effects.
How to prepare broccoli crowns
For a tasty veggie, you want to follow these steps on how to prepare broccoli crowns. They include:
- Washing the broccoli
- Pull off the stems and leaves
- Cut the Broccoli
- Season the broccoli
- Cook the broccoli
Washing broccoli
The first thing you want to do is wash and dry your broccoli crowns. Be sure to place it under running water and use your fingers to brush off any. You can also gently flake off the dirt with a vegetable brush*.
Once it’s clean you can pat it dry with a clean dish cloth. Do not soak the broccoli in water.
Pull off the leaves and stems
Broccoli crowns do not usually have as many stems and leaves as a full broccoli bouquet but you may want to inspect it for any look leaves or stems that are hanging on to the broccoli. If you cannot pull them with your fingers you can also cut them off with a Chef’s or paring knife*.
When making this recipe I like to get a head of broccoli usually I will purchase broccoli crowns and cut them into florets.
If you cannot find any broccoli crowns you can also purchase a bunch of broccoli and then cut it into smaller pieces.
If you have any leftover broccoli you can use them for another recipe.
Here are the steps on how to cut up broccoli into smaller parts of broccoli or florets.
- Turn the broccoli crown over so you can see the stems and place it on a cutting board
- Cut the stalk as close to the florets as possible.
- Start with larger florets and cut them into smaller pieces by cutting into the stems
- Continue to trim the broccoli so it is broken into smaller pieces
- You can also then cut the florets into smaller pieces if you want smaller broccoli bites
How to get perfect florets without the hassle of cutting broccoli
If learning how to chop broccoli is daunting or too time-consuming don’t fret there is a way for you to get florets without the hassle. Look for raw pre-cut broccoli florets in your supermarket to save time on broccoli prep.
What to do with broccoli to make it taste good
Often if I’m unsure of what to season broccoli with I will just mix olive oil and experiment with a new herb or spice. Or I will use my tried and true favorite broccoli spices and seasoning, garlic, and dill. In my opinion, this is the best seasoning for broccoli.
Another good seasoning for broccoli is onion. You can use fresh or dried onion. They both provide good flavor and seasonings for broccoli.
If you want to make spicy roasted broccoli you can add some hot pepper flakes for a kicked-up broccoli seasoning.
This sweetened cinnamon recipe is sometimes referred to as broccoli crack or crack broccoli.
It’s because people just can’t get enough of this tasty seasoning.
As you can see it’s a simple solution of what to put on broccoli to make it taste better.
How to cook fresh broccoli
Once you have these vegetable florets prepped the sky’s the limit for the number of broccoli uses and different ways to cook broccoli.
There are several ways you can cook this vegetable. There are many good recipes for broccoli. You can make it steamed, sauteed, blanched, or my favorite, oven-cooked broccoli.
Roasted broccoli takes on the flavor of its seasonings and also softens the veggie and makes it more digestible and palatable.
That is what we did in this recipe. Mix olive oil, garlic, cinnamon, and broccoli then roast it in the oven for a naturally sweetened veggie.
When it comes to how to eat broccoli this is one of my favorite ways.
Ingredients in this cinnamon broccoli recipe
There are only five ingredients needed to make this cinnamon broccoli.
- Broccoli
- Garlic powder*
- Fresh garlic
- Cinnamon powder*
- Extra virgin olive oil*
How to make the recipe (step-by-step instructions)
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Then take a baking sheet and put it aside.
3. Thoroughly wash and dry the broccoli crown. Flip over and place on a cutting board. Slice off pieces of the stem so you can break the crown into smaller pieces.
Chop off the ends of the stems so you have florets. If you like smaller pieces you can also chop the florets in half.
If you want to save time you can also purchase pre-cut broccoli florets from the store.*
4. Once the broccoli is cut into your desired size florets add them to a large mixing bowl. Then top with olive oil*.
Then add the fresh garlic and the garlic powder.
Finally, add the cinnamon powder and then mix well and set aside.
5. Pour the seasoned broccoli out onto a baking sheet. Arrange the broccoli so they are in a flat layer.
6. Place the baking sheet into the oven and cook for 15 minutes. Then flip the broccoli pieces over so the other side can get roasted. Cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until they are crispy.
7. Let cool for five minutes and enjoy!
What to serve with cinnamon broccoli
Cinnamon broccoli is a tasty side dish that can go with a lot of meals. My favorite entree would be chicken or pork. If you are a vegetarian or vegan this cinnamon broccoli would go great with cannellini beans or a veggie burger.
How to store the recipe
Once you cooked this broccoli side dish you may be wondering, “How do you store broccoli leftovers?”
Here is the information on how to keep broccoli fresh in the fridge and freezer.
This cooked cinnamon broccoli can last from 3 to 5 days in an airtight container* in the refrigerator.
If you are pondering as to whether or not, “can you freeze cooked broccoli?” The answer is yes! This leftover broccoli could last up to a month in the freezer when placed in a freezer-safe container*.
Some people like to make a cinnamon broccoli salad with onion and apple cider vinegar dressing. This can also be done by taking the roasted broccoli out of the fridge and topping your favorite salad with these cinnamon broccoli florets. They taste great cold!
How to reheat the recipe
If you happen to have any broccoli left over, you here are instructions on how to reheat the broccoli.
You can put it in the microwave for a minute. If that is not enough add 30 seconds to another minute.
Reheating in the oven is another option to reheat the broccoli. You want to put the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for about 5 to 10 minutes.
You can also reheat it in the air fryer. The air fryer broccoli temperature will vary so start at 200 degrees Fahrenheit and reheat for just 5 minutes. Check it and cook for another minute or two if needed.
Tips to make this recipe great
Try to use fresh broccoli in this recipe. Frozen broccoli will not have the same results.
Look for a broccoli crown that is green and ripe without any flowers budding out of the crown.
If you hate cutting broccoli one way to avoid having to chop up florets is by purchasing pre-cut broccoli florets*. They usually are sold in the produce aisle.
Cinnamon broccoli recipe variations
I like to avoid added sugar as much as possible. Still, if you are looking to make your cinnamon broccoli a little sweeter and are able to have some sugar in your diet you can add a sprinkling of a tsp of brown sugar on top of the broccoli before you place it in the oven.
Common and (FAQ) questions
Sticking to steamed broccoli recipes is an easy way to keep your preparation time short. However, it can leave you with some bland-tasting veggies.
So if you’re wondering “What can I add to broccoli to make it taste better?” Olive oil mixed with some spices like garlic and cinnamon can make it more palatable. Cinnamon is a great spice to use if you want to make a broccoli sugar-sweet recipe without the added sugar.
There are many different ways to cook broccoli. I think roasting is the easiest and best way to increase the flavor when cooking fresh broccoli.
If you are wondering “How do you roast broccoli?” here are the details:
1. Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Take your florets or broccoli pieces and place them in a glass bowl
3. Toss in olive oil and your spice of choice
4. Pour out the broccoli on the baking sheet
5. Throw in the oven
When baking broccoli the amount of crispness may vary from person to person. Cook for too long and you could wind up with a burnt broccoli recipe. This is why when roasting broccoli in the oven I like to cook it for about 15 minutes and see how it comes out.
If I want it to be more cooked I will put it on for another 10 to 15 minutes and see if it has the desired effect.
Once the broccoli is where I want it to be then I will take it out of the oven, let it cool, and enjoy!
Broccoli that gets burnt tastes so delicious because of the added flavor the char adds to it. The heat from the oven will cause the proteins and sugars in the broccoli to caramelize and make them more flavorful.
It’s what makes you want to eat the whole sheet of broccoli before you serve it.
Other than the sweet spice of cinnamon here is a list of what herbs go with broccoli:
-Cilantro
-Parsley
-Dill
-Thyme
-Oregano
Just mix the above with olive oil and you have some easy new ideas for seasoned broccoli recipes.
Seasoning broccoli can be very easy. All you need is a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and your favorite spice or herb of choice.
More delicious broccoli recipes
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Equipment used in this recipe*
Here is a list of equipment or similar items used in this cinnamon broccoli recipe.
*Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our disclosure statement.
Cinnamon Broccoli (recipe card)
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh broccoli washed, dried, and cut into florets (about 1 medium crown of broccoli)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon powder
- 2 cloves fresh garlic peeled and minced or pressed
- 1 tbsp cold pressed extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Take out a baking sheet and set it aside.
- Wash and dry the broccoli crown. Then cut small pieces or florets removing any stems and leaves. Set the broccoli aside.
- In a large mixing bowl add broccoli florets, extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, garlic powder, and cinnamon, and mix well.
- Pour the seasoned broccoli out onto a baking sheet. Arrange the broccoli into a flat layer.
- Place the broccoli in the oven and cook for 15 minutes. Then flip the broccoli over and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes until they are well roasted.
- Let cool for five minutes and enjoy.
Video
Notes
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Use fresh, green, and ripe broccoli in this recipe. If you hate cutting broccoli, you can purchase pre-cut broccoli florets, which are often sold in the produce aisle*.Recipe variations
I find the cinnamon is sweet enough but if you want an additional sweetness you can sprinkle a tsp of brown sugar over the broccoli before cooking it.How to store leftovers
Cooked cinnamon broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, or in a freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to a month.How to reheat leftovers
There are 3 ways to reheat leftover broccoli: in the microwave, in the oven, or in the air fryer. Here are the instructions for each method:- Microwave: Place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1 minute. If the broccoli is not heated through, microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutritional Information
*Nutritional information is estimated using Nutrifox nutrition label maker**Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, this means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The Radiant Root is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Learn more in our disclosure statement.
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