All about Broccoli

I figured that since vegetarians like me don't have many options, so I opened my world to BROCCOLI. Wasn't a very popular vegetable while I was growing up, to the extent that I learnt its correct pronunciation like 2 years back ! :P Tried it and liked it, so I thought of enlightening people about its benefits.

Broccoli is a member of the Brassica family of vegetables, a group that includes cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and Brussels sprouts. Some of its benefits:

• STRONG BONES:Broccoli is a very good substitute for milk, it is very rich in calcium.
  
• IMPROVED IMMUNE SYSTEM: It is high in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as dietary fiber. It has even been shown to reduce levels of a bacteria that causes chronic stomach inflammation and increases the risk of ulcers and stomach cancer.
  
• ANTI-CANCER CAPABILITY: It is rich in a group of compounds called isothiocyanates, natural chemicals that have strong anti-cancer properties.
  
• REDUCED RISK OF HEART DISEASE: Both vitamins A and C are antioxidants that help to slow damage to our bodies as we age. Consumption of antioxidants can improve the immune system and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Widely used in Italian cooking, can be eaten boiled, steamed, raw (I wouldn't),stir-fried, etc. Although boiling reduces its benefits.

Broccoli has been rated one of the most nutrition rich vegetables. You can find more benefits of broccoli on:
http://archives.cnn.com/2000/FOOD/news/04/13/broccoli.benefits.wmd/

Stay tuned for Broccoli recipes, I used it in Indian, Chinese and Italian cooking, and I wasn't disappointed at all !