Ashleigh Smith
Broccoli Raab is a very interesting vegetable, most commonly used in Italian and Chinese Cuisine. Even though its name includes broccoli it is more closely related to mustards and turnips with bitter flavored leaves and flowers, sharper than the traditional broccoli.
You may have never heard of this plant before. That's not uncommon though as it isn't very common to North American cuisine.
Even though this vegetable is used for cooking there isn’t nearly as much information out there about it as say, tomatoes. So we are here to help you understand what it is and why you might be interested in growing it.
Broccoli Rapini isn’t it's only name. Itis recognized by several names including: Broccoli rabe, rapa, rapine, rappi, rappone, fall and spring raab, runip broccoli, taitcat, Italian or Chinese Broccoli, broccoli rape, broccoli de rabe, Italian turnip, and turnip broccoli. In Italy it is commonly known as Broccoli Asparago.
Broccoli Raab is recognized by its lack of a central head while still developing floweretts with a very similar appearance to broccoli, giving it this misleading name. Unlike the broccoli you are familiar with, Broccoli Rapini is mostly grown for the foliage which is high in vitamins A, C, K, and potassium.
It should be harvested just as the flower buds form, or as a microgreen. Harvesting as soon as the buds are forming is important as this plant will bolt quickly. For a harvest throughout the season, make successive plantings.
Planning ahead is important as these leaves do not keep for more than 1-2 weeks after being cut. The ideal seasons for these plants are fall to spring as they also favor the cooler temperatures.
To Cook Broccoli Raab:
- Rinse
- Cut off the bottom of the stems
- Cut stalks crosswise into 2 inch pieces
- Boil for 1-2 minutes
- Saute in olive oil 3-5 minutes
- You may also prepare it in a stir-fry or steamed
About the Author
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
1 comments
James Raimondi
I am interested in being a better gardener and helping our community grow more sustainable food
Further Reading
From Grass to Garden: How to Expand Your Garden Beds
Written By Lara Wadsworth Taking the step to expand your garden is an exciting milestone. Turning a patch of grass into a vibrant garden bed enhances the aesthetic appeal of your yard and provides more room for growing flowers, vegetables, or herbs. Th...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-10-299 min read0Halloween Is in the Air
Written By Lara Wadsworth As the autumnal season is fully underway, I feel anticipation for one of my favorite holidays: Halloween! As a kid, I LOVED dressing up and running around with my friends and cousins… not to mention the candy! Of course, the c...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-10-297 min read0Expect the Unexpected: 3 Emergency Kits Every Home Needs
Unexpected emergencies happen all the time—earthquakes, fires, floods, tornadoes, power outages, etc. Stay prepared with quick access to basic supplies in any situation. Check out these 3 DIY Emergency Kits that will carry you through short, long-term,...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-10-226 min read12024 Giant Pumpkin Regatta: A Wave of Fun!
This year’s Ginormous Pumpkin Regatta was filled with new races and activities for all ages! What is a pumpkin regatta, you may ask? It is a captivating and entertaining race featuring giant pumpkin boats captained by individuals dressed to the nines i...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-10-213 min read0