In the 6th century BC, a variety of cabbage with the sounding Italian name broccoli, which means a flowering branch of cabbage, was bred in the Mediterranean.
In the 18th century, broccoli was already widespread in many European countries.
Italian immigrants brought it to the United States of America in the 20s of the last century. This is how broccoli became everyone’s favorite vegetable.
Why we love Broccoli
- Contains twice the amount of potassium, phosphorus, and calcium than other types of cabbage.
- Contains practically the same amount of calcium as the same amount of milk.
- Rich in iron, zinc, manganese, sulfur, magnesium
- Contains a real arsenal of vitamins – C, B1, B2, B5, B6, PP, E, K, A.
- It may surprise you, but the content of vitamin C in broccoli is higher than in citrus fruits. About 100 g of broccoli provides almost 100% of your daily requirement of vitamin C and K.
- Due to the high content of vitamin B1, it regulates the activity of the nervous system.
- Contains methionine and choline, which prevent the increase of cholesterol levels and the development of atherosclerosis.
- Selenium, sulforaphane and anetoltrithione are actively considered as cancer-fighting substances in this green vegetable.
- The best choice for weight loss during low-calorie diets.
- Contains a large amount of dietary fiber, which is why it promotes the activity of normal intestinal microflora and prevents constipation.
- Stimulates bile production, liver and gall bladder functions.
- It is irreplaceable in the case of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Sulforaphane contained in it stabilizes the sugar level.
- Chlorophyll has a positive effect on the functioning of the hematopoietic system.
How to cook Broccoli properly
As a rule, most mothers use only the flowers for cooking. Did you know you can use stems too? But you have to peel the skin with a knife.
It takes 5-7 minutes to cook cauliflower flowers, and 10-12 minutes for stems. After removing from the pot, run cold water. Broccoli processed in this way preserves vitamins and is tastier as food.
How to choose good quality Broccoli
Look at the flowers. Fresh, high-quality broccoli has bright green florets. If you notice hidden yellowness, do not buy such broccoli – it is already overripe and contains less nutrients.
Can you freeze it?
It’s best to use fresh vegetables, but if you can’t buy fresh often, you can freeze them.
Also See: How to start proper nutrition?