Some individuals like broccoli florets, however broccoli leaves and stems can also be consumed. The broccoli stem has the greatest fiber, but the broccoli leaves have the most cell-protecting antioxidants, vitamins E and K, and calcium. At the grocery store or farmer’s market, search for broccoli with dark green or purple florets, not yellow ones.
- Do not wash broccoli until it is ready to be cooked.
- Unwashed, it will last a week in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
- Up to 90 percent of broccoli’s nutrients are destroyed by boiling, so cook it in a different manner.
- It may be easily roasted, steamed, stir-fried, or microwaved.
- Broccoli may also be eaten raw with hummus or salad dressing.
For further methods of preparing broccoli, please visit: Broccoli Parmesan Pasta Creamy Broccoli Soup Roasted Broccoli & Tomatoes
Are broccoli stems as nutritious as broccoli florets?
As nutritious as broccoli florets? I must admit that I have never given broccoli stems much consideration before. I’ve cut off the florets with a huge kitchen knife and discarded the obviously inedible remains for years. The leftover pineapple crown and egg shells from Sunday’s lunch left me with an overflowing compost container last night.
Something about this situation made me ponder whether broccoli stems have any nutritional benefit. I assumed it was comparable to iceberg lettuce based only on its color, mainly water with a bit more fiber. I was so incorrect! Although they are not as beautiful or tasty as the florets, broccoli stems are equally healthy.
Actually, stems contain somewhat more calcium, iron, and vitamin C per gram. The dark green florets are only richer in vitamin A. How could I go through life without understanding this? Still, I shake my head when I consider all of the nutrients I’ve discarded over the years, and I daydream of utilizing my future stems.
Typically, vitamin C is associated with oranges or strawberries, but broccoli definitely deserves credit — a half-cup (78-gram) serving of cooked broccoli boasts 84% of the RDI for this vitamin ( 3 ). Summary Broccoli provides an excellent source of vitamin C, a nutrient known to support healthy immune response.
Should one consume Broccoli?
Let’s not dismiss it as the black meat of the brassica family; it’s a food we should regularly consume. And even more crucial, let’s utilize each and every portion of the broccoli – yes, each and every part.
What are broccoli’s nutritional benefits?
Numerous nutrients in broccoli are known to promote bone health and prevent bone-related illnesses. Vitamin K and calcium, two essential minerals for keeping strong, healthy bones, are abundant in broccoli ( 42, 43, 44 ). In addition, it includes phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins A and C, all of which are essential for strong bones ( 45 ).
