Broccolini

Broccolini: Also called baby broccoli, it's a cross between Chinese kale (kai lan) and broccoli. Broccolini is a green vegetable similar to broccoli but with smaller florets and longer, thinner stalks. The hybrid vegetable has thinner, less fibrous stems that are as delicious as the florets. While broccolini was developed in Japan, much of it is grown in California and Arizona, and it's seeing increased popularity in the U.S., U.K. and Australia. It can be used in any broccoli dish, has a sweeter flavour and cooks quicker than regular broccoli.

How to Cook With Broccolini:
Broccolini is a very versatile vegetable as it is delicious when cooked in a variety of ways. It can be sautéed, steamed, grilled, stir-fried, boiled, roasted and even eaten raw. Taking just 10 minutes or so to cook, it needs very little except a sprinkle of salt. It's also easily incorporated into pasta dishes, casseroles, risottos, salads and can be served with a dip as an appetizer.

Rinse broccolini well immediately before eating or cooking. Unlike ordinary broccoli, which tends to have a woody stem, it is tender from floret to stem so you can eat the whole vegetable. Trim any dry tips and leave the rest. There's no need to peel the stems, either. They will become nice and tender when cooked and are not only tasty but packed with nutrition.

How To Buy?
Look for fresh-looking florets with tightly closed buds on top. The stems should also be bright green, crispy, and fresh. Avoid any that are discoloured - including yellowing buds - or bunches with soft or dark spots on the stem.

Storage:
Don't wash broccolini until you're ready to use it. It can be refrigerated in loose or perforated plastic in the crisper for up to 10 days. For long-term storage, cut it into bite-size pieces, then blanch for one minute in boiling water. The broccolini should turn a brighter green, and you'll want to halt the cooking process by dunking it immediately in an ice bath. Flash freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, then transfer to freezer bags. Eat it within 6-8 months.