It's essential not only because it softens up broccoli so it can easily get immersed into hot oil without breaking but also because if not cooked properly then there are chances that they may turn soggy if they are immersed directly into hot oil without boiling them first before doing so! Broccoli is often added into some soups etc when prepared as well as fried otherwise its taste becomes less crisp! When using broccoli cut it into smaller florets if they are big enough! And remember not too long should broccoli be immersed into hot oil otherwise they will turn soggy as well! Broccoli florets are small enough! Just make sure that there aren't too many cut pieces immersed into hot oil otherwise they may stick together! After frying when cooked make sure that they remain crisp on outside by tossing them back into warmed up oil again without burning them completely! They should not lose their crunchiness at all!