This is probably one of the most interesting looking vegetables, with its intricate spiral patterns made up of many buds alternating in size. It originates from Italy and can also be called Romanesco Broccoli or Roman Cauliflower. It is part of the same edible flower family (Brassicas) as Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts and Cabbage.

It can be prepared for recipes in the same way as Broccoli and Cauliflower, but will give a more distinct, earthy, nutty and mildly sweet flavour.

Romanesco broccoli is a glabrous, erect, annual or biennial herb that may grow about 80-130 cm tall. The plant grows best in organically rich, fertile (high in nitrogen), consistently moist, well-composted and well-drained loams. The plant has tap root system with un-branched, waxy stem thickening upwards. Leaves are medium to large in size and are broad, flat, and oblong in shape. The dark green leaves are thick, fibrous, and stiff with a leathery texture. There is also a prominent central midrib with many small veins spreading throughout the leaf, and the midrib attaches to a dense, green, erect stem. Romanesco leaves are crisp and chewy with an earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter flavor that becomes sweetened when cooked.

This beautiful vegetable is a hybrid of cauliflower and broccoli. It’s loaded with health benefits and makes a great substitute in any recipe that calls for broccoli or cauliflower. It is an edible flower of the species Brassica oleracea, and a variant form of cauliflower. Romanesco broccoli resembles a cauliflower, but is of a light green color and the inflorescence (the bud) has an approximate self-similar character, with the branched meristems making a logarithmic spiral. In this sense the broccoli’s shape approximates a natural fractal; each bud is composed of a series of smaller buds, all arranged in yet another logarithmic spiral. This self-similar pattern continues at several smaller levels.

Health benefits

Good for Eyes : Romanesco broccolis are loaded with Vitamin A, the vitamin that is needed by your eyes in order to function properly. Vitamin A can also reduce the macular degeneration that leads to eye problems!

Improves circulation and Heart Health : Romanesco broccoli is rich in iron, which helps to increase the production of red blood cells, improving circulation and heart health. An increase in circulation can also help your brain by supplying more oxygen and nutrients to your noggin’!

Fight infection :  Romanesco broccoli consists of numerous antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may help your body fight off infection and disease.

Loaded with Natural Fiber :  Due to the wonderful amount of natural fiber, Romanesco broccoli goes a long way in managing your cholesterol and blood sugar and is great for your digestion.

Reduces cancer risk : Fiber and antioxidants in Romanesco broccoli helps protect you from free radicals that can lead to cancer and other health problems.

Boost digestive health :  Like broccoli and cauliflower, Romanesco broccolis are loaded with healthy digestive fibers that will do wonders for your digestion and waste elimination!