1-First Step: Preparation and Seasoning Start by preheating your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, grab your broccoli crowns. You want to break them into large florets. Why large? Because small pieces tend to burn and dry out at the tips before the stems are fully cooked. Large florets ensure everything cooks evenly. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, tamari, and garlic powder. Do not be shy here, use your hands to mix everything. You want to make sure you coat the tops of the florets really well. This coating is what prevents burning and helps those edges get golden and delicious instead of dry and charred.

2-Second Step: Arranging in the Basket Once your broccoli is seasoned, it is time to load up the air fryer. This step is crucial. You must arrange the florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each piece. If you crowd the basket or stack the broccoli on top of each other, it will steam instead of air fry. You end up with soggy broccoli, and nobody wants that! Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to work in batches. It is better to take a few extra minutes to cook two batches than to ruin the texture by overcrowding. Patience pays off here for that perfect crunch.

3-Third Step: The Cooking Process Place the basket in the preheated air fryer and set the timer. Cook the broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes. Do not just walk away, though! About halfway through the cooking time, open the basket and flip the florets. This ensures all sides get exposure to the hot air and brown evenly. Keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes. You are looking for tender stalks and golden brown edges. The smell will be amazing, filling your kitchen with savory garlic aromas. If you like yours extra crispy, you can leave them in for another minute or two, but watch closely so they do not burn.

4-Fourth Step: Finishing Touches When the broccoli is done to your liking, carefully remove the basket and transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. This is when you add those final touches. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you want some heat, and add the sesame seeds for a nice crunch. Serve it hot straight from the basket if you want to keep things casual. The heat really brings out the flavors of the tamari and garlic. It pairs perfectly with just about any main dish you can think of.