Broccolini – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What is broccolini?

Because they look similar in appearance, some people think broccolini is the baby version of broccoli. However, this is not the case. Broccolini is actually a hybrid cross between broccoli and Chinese broccoli (also known as gai lan). While broccoli has an earthier and slightly bitter taste, broccolini’s flavor profile leans on the sweeter side. Broccolini will also have longer stems and smaller heads in comparison to broccoli.

Broccolini is still a fairly new cruciferous vegetable, as it was invented in 1993 in Japan. Because of its newness and because it provides less quantity in a stalk, broccolini is typically more expensive than broccoli. Substitutes for broccolini are traditional broccoli, Chinese broccoli, broccoli rabe, cauliflower, and asparagus (because broccolini’s sweeter flavor is similar to asparagus’ sweeter notes).

Broccolini is a great source of vitamin C (high in antioxidants), vitamin K (which helps prevent blood clotting and aids in healthy bone tissue). Like other leafy greens, it has iron and calcium in its nutrients.

You can often find broccolini gracing the plates at fine-dining restaurants, accompanying braised short ribs and other high-quality red meat dishes. Shop broccolini.

Where did broccolini originate from?

Broccolini was first created in 1993 by Sakata Seed Inc. in Yokohama, Japan. At a meeting, one of the leading experts in broccoli seeds suggested the idea of expanding the broccoli market by creating something new. Because broccoli typically grows best in cooler temperatures, production decreases during the warmer seasons. But if they were to somehow make a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, a plant that withstands hotter temperatures, they can create a new vegetable that falls in between both popular produces.

After about seven years of plant breeding and genetic engineering, a new hybrid was formed under the name “asparation” because of its long stems and sweet profile similar to asparagus. This breed would later make its way to the United States and become what is now known as broccolini.

What is the nutritional value of broccolini?/ What are the benefits of eating broccolini?

Broccolini does not have quite as many vitamins and minerals as its counterpart, broccoli. However, one cup of broccolini has 5.8 grams of carbohydrates, 3.7 grams of dietary fiber, and 2.4 grams of protein. Broccolini also has moderate amounts of vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and iron.

Broccolini contains beta-carotene, a property used in most skin care products to help with skin health. Beta-carotene found in fruits and vegetables turns into vitamin A, which is known to strengthen skin and vision. Vitamin K helps the body prevent blood clotting. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties and supports the body’s immune system. The calcium in broccolini aids in bone health and bone strength, while the fiber helps regulate the body’s digestive system.

What is the difference between broccoli and broccolini?

While broccoli and broccolini look quite similar, there are distinct differences. In appearance, broccoli, as a bunch, has a much thicker stem and large florets. Broccolini, on the other hand, has longer, thinner stems and smaller florets. As for their flavor profiles, broccoli is known for its earthy and slightly bitter taste. Broccolini leans towards a sweeter flavor profile and is said to mildly mimic the flavor of asparagus.

How is broccolini grown?

Broccolini is a hybrid between traditional broccoli and Chinese broccoli. Because broccolini is a crossbreed of both broccoli and Chinese broccoli, broccolini does fare better when grown in cooler temperatures. However, it is not as sensitive because Chinese broccoli can withstand warmer climates.

When growing broccolini, it is best to purchase seeds from a farmer’s market or specialty grocery store, or nursery. Broccolini is best grown in places with sunlight and nutrient-rich soil. Don’t expect to see a thick head and stem-like traditional broccoli. Broccolini will have smaller flowering heads (florets) and taller and thinner stems.

When is broccolini in season?

Broccolini is available throughout the year. However, they are in peak season from October to April.

How to store broccolini

You can store broccolini in a plastic bag in the fridge. Doing this will keep the broccolini fresh for about 10 days. Unless you are consuming them immediately, do not wash your broccolini before storage, as it can lead to premature spoilage.

How to tell if broccolini is bad

When choosing broccolini at the grocery store, make sure you choose the freshest bunch. Look at the stems of broccolini and ensure they are firm, green, and not dried out. The buds on the florets or “heads” of the broccolini should be closed and not flowered or yellow in color. Broccolini, when fresh, should be firm to the touch. Broccolini that has gone bad will be soft in texture and may have visible discoloration or brown spots.

If you are looking to have your groceries conveniently delivered, you can easily shop for broccolini and more via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products.

What can I substitute for broccolini?

The obvious substitute for broccolini is your traditional broccoli. Broccoli will have a slightly bitter profile compared to the sweeter broccolini, but it is the simplest substitute.

You can also substitute broccolini for its hybrid parent, the Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan. Chinese broccoli will have much leafier greens and skinny stems. Shop Chinese broccoli.

People also compare the taste of broccolini to asparagus, making asparagus a viable substitute. Both vegetables are on the sweeter flavor profile and visually, share long, leggy stems.

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