The Goodness of Broccoli
posted in Handy Tips |Broccoli is a cool weather crop and will not grow in hot climate. It belongs to the cabbage family. It is a green vegetable with tight clusters of green florets on top of a stout pale green stalk. Broccoli is a mult-purpose vegetable that it can cook in varieties of ways; such as salads,stir-fries, steaming, soups and cassoroles. It is the king of nutrients which is high in vitamin C, E and K; and also high in beta carotene, fiber,potassium,calcium and phytochemicals. Some studies show it can prevent heart disease, cancers and birth defects. It can help you to maintain a healthy vision, healthy skin, bones, and healthy red blood cell.
When buying broccoli look for the crowns of emerald green florets and avoid yellow or wilting broccoli or those that already begun showing open buds. Broccoli will keep for about seven days in the refrigerator if wrapped in paper (preferably white or brown paper) and then put in a plastic bag before storing. Soaked broccoli before use to get rid of insects and debris and also remove the wilted and yellow sections. Always blanch broccoli in hot boiling water before use in salads and stir-fries. The stalks are tasty too, but may take longer to cook. Seperate it from the florets and trim the outer layer before blanching in hot water.
