place 3/4 to 1 inch of water in a saucepan with a steamer and bring to a boil. (note that if you don't have a steamer, you can simply put the broccoli directly into an inch of boiling water.) add broccoli, steam 5 to 6 min: add the broccoli to the steamer and cover; reduce heat to medium and let cook for 5-6 minutes.