What is Broccoli?
Broccoli might look like little green trees, but it’s actually a member of the cabbage family (Brassica oleracea), which also includes kale, collard greens, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower (the evil albino cousin.) The puffy foliage-like green top is actually the flowering head of the plant, so it’s really more like a flower than it is a tree!
The most common type of broccoli is “Calabrese broccoli,” named after the Calabria region in southern Italy. It grows best with moist soil in cooler climates between 64°F & 70°F
Etymology
The English name broccoli is derived from both the Latin bracchium, which means branch or shoot and the Italian word broccolo, which means “The flowering crest of a cabbage.” The 18th-century English referred to broccoli simply as “Italian asparagus.”
Varieties
Calabrese broccoli is the variety of broccoli we’re most familiar with, but other varieties and hybrids exist. Why not try giving one of these a try sometime?
Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Romanesco Broccoli
Broccolini (Broccoli x Kale)
Broccoflower (Broccoli x Cauliflower)
Haters Gonna Hate...
Hear us out, Mr. President!
While broccoli might be both delicious and nutritious to many, some people absolutely hate it. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re picky eaters though; it might be genetic. A gene called TAS2R38 that is responsible for bitter taste perception may cause foods like broccoli to taste more bitter to some people.
Nonetheless, broccoli is a very versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many different ways. Check out the recipes page for some great recipes and serving ideas. Even the biggest broccoli haters (We’re looking at you, George Bush!) may learn to enjoy one of these tasty recipes starring nutritious, delicious broccoli!