Difference Between Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe

The similarities in Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe are many as both appear similar and have the same compatibility in national dishes still both vegetables are different as they belong to different vegetable groups. Ultimately their names are similar but flavors are not. The Two have many health benefits if eaten raw and counted in the list of exotic vegetables used in Italian items.

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe

The main difference between Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe is that Broccolini is a is the member of cabbage group vegetables and Broccoli Rabe is a member of Turnip group vegetables. Broccolini is the small version of Broccoli vegetable and hybrid in nature whereas Broccoli Rabe is not broccoli at all and tastes bitter not liked by small kids.

Broccolini is a very nutritious vegetable containing vitamin C, K, and A. It is somehow a cost-effective vegetable with no wastage since every part of it is edible including stem, flower, leaves, and florets. It is considered to be the substitute for asparagus. While cooking it does not require much seasoning.

Broccoli Rabe is a low-calorie vegetable that helps in reducing bad fat from the human body since it is rich in fiber that cleanses toxins out of the body. Its Bitterness can be overcome by boiling in saltwater. It plays a vital role in fighting Alzheimer’s disease. Broccoli Rabe is also a calcium substitute for dairy products.

Comparison Table Between Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe

Parameters of ComparisonBroccoliniBroccoli Rabe
IntroductionIt is a green vegetable belonging to the cabbage family named Broccolini.It is a green vegetable belonging to the turnip family named Broccoli Rabe.
PotassiumBeing a cross-breed plant Broccolini is low in potassium.Broccoli Rabe is high in potassium and rich in antioxidants too.
FeaturesIt is mildly sweet with long soft green stalks.Broccoli Rabe is bitter and has a strong flavor.
QualitiesBroccolini contains vitamins, nutrition, and phytonutrients that protect from diseases.Broccoli Rabe contains dietary fiber, multivitamins that protect from obesity and heart problems.
CookingBroccolini being a soft vegetable with stalks is easy to cook and good in taste.Broccoli Rabe is challenging in cooking also the taste is not likable.

What is Broccolini?

The term Broccolini is the lanky hybrid version of the vegetable Broccoli. It has big leaves that are edible. broccoli and Chinese broccoli has the same characteristic as present is Broccolini. Its taste is milder than normal Broccoli also its end florets are not much dense. It can be easily blanched and baked for consumption. The plant was developed for about 8 years by Sakata seed hence it was not genetically modified.

It works well in stir-fry and cooks very easily with very limited seasonings. Broccolini contains carotenoids and glucosinolates which prevent the human body from various types of cancers. This vegetable was recognized in the year 1993 and the name Broccolini was given by the united states. The harvesting season for Broccolini is spring. The thinner stock of Broccolini is used as soup as well. 

The Broccolini is much more expensive as compared to Broccoli. Before cooking preparations, one needs to rinse it thoroughly in water to avoid micro insects inside it. The other name of Broccolini is a superfood as its tastes wonderful and healthy too. It is exceptionally tender and crisp as well in texture. Its long stems have a mouth-watering crunch. It is very neutral and very compatible with the dishes lacking texture.

What is Broccoli Rabe?

The Broccoli Rabe is popularly called Rapini. It is a mustard green vegetable with thin stalks and little buds. Very prominent companion of Italian dishes and taste awesome if sauteed in garlic while adding in pasta. The pronunciation of Rabe is “Rob” in Broccolini Rabe. 

It grows throughout the world and all parts of this green leafy vegetable are edible. Roasting is the most popular cooking for this and other methods of cooking vegetables are also applicable to it. The native origin of this plant is in Asia and the harvesting season for Broccolini Rabe is winter.

One can also add it in stew and soup for the goodness of health and aggressive flavor. It can be stored in a plastic bag for up to one week in a refrigerator. Particularly it is associated with Mediterranean cuisine due to its bitterness. It is scientifically classified as Brassica rapa var.

The vegetable is flooded with Vitamin A if eaten as a salad. 90% of its harvesting is done in California. From down to top the average size of Broccoli Rabe is 7 to 10 inches. It is also served as a topping in an Italian grilled sandwich. Daily intake of raw Broccoli Rabe is advantageous for health-conscious people.

Main Differences Between Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe

  • Compatibility:  Broccolini is compatible with Italian dishes mainly whereas Broccoli Rabe is compatible with various national dishes in the world.
  • Origin: The origin of Broccolini was by Sakata Seed Company, a Japanese seed purveyor, and Broccoli Rabe was first identified in China or the Mediterranean region.
  • Appearances: Broccolini has leaves with smooth margins, long stems, and loose forest, on the other hand, Broccoli Rabe has leaves with toothed margins, thin stems, and small loose florets.
  • Seed Saving: In Broccolini seed saving won’t sow true as it is a hybrid vegetable and Broccoli Rabe is open-pollinated, and seeds sow true.
  • Edible parts: Broccolini is edible with its young stems which are not hard whereas Broccoli Rabe is edible with its young as well as hard stems for cooking.
  • Conclusion

    Though both Broccolini and Broccoli Rabe sound the same with different characteristics. They are fat-less vegetables and can be used in cooking preparations by frying, roasting, etc. Ample of national recipes can be prepared with them to add unique flavors. Standalone salad can also be prepared with them.

    In culinary circles, Broccolini and Broccoli rabe have the same versatility that allows them to enhance the taste of French dishes. Adding them to diet makes a person healthy and active. While the Chinese broccoli and broccolini are somehow similar, Broccolini Rabe is different from them. The powerful fiber intake of Broccoli Rabe helps to prevent high cholesterol levels in the body.

    References

  • http://bioticainternational.com/ojs/index.php/biorestoday/article/view/1128
  • https://extension.sdstate.edu/sites/default/files/2020-07/S-0008-08.pdf
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