Romanesco: what it is, its properties and how it’s eaten

Romanesco: what it is, its properties and how it’s eaten

Romanesco, brassica oleracea, is an appetising and nutritious food with substantial nutritional properties that provide significant benefits to the body. It stands out particularly for its aesthetic form and versatility for preparing exquisite dishes.

What is romanesco?

Romanesco is often confused as a hybrid between cauliflower and broccoli; however, it’s actually nothing of the sort. It’s a green variety of Italian cauliflower, a member of the cruciferous family, and within that the cabbage family.

It is a green inflorescence, composed of pyramid-shaped florets.

Romanesco properties

It’s usually found in markets from September to April.

Its cultivation began in Italy in the early 19th century and spread to other European countries.

Properties of romanesco cabbage

Romanesco cabbage has unique nutritional properties, with significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, and it has a high fibre content and is low in calories.

how do you eat romanesco?

Due to the presence of micronutrients in its internal structure, romanesco cabbage can offer several health benefits.

Below, we’ve broken down its most outstanding components.

  • Vitamins: C, K, E, B2 and B6.
  • Folic acid.
  • Minerals: potassium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium and manganese.

1. Diuretic

The consumption of romanesco helps the kidneys to function properly, thanks to its mild diuretic and toxin-purifying effect.

2. Heart-healthy

Studies have show that a high intake of cruciferous vegetables is often associated with low blood concentrations of homocysteine, which is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disorders.

Its nutritional properties also make it a valuable food for the immune system; cellular, bone and blood renewal; protection against free radicals; energy use; iron and calcium absorption, and many more.

3. It protects the brain

Recent studies on various aspects of memory seem to indicate that regular consumption of cabbage family vegetables could help in the fight against memory loss associated with certain degenerative diseases.

Benefits of romanesco

Important benefits of this type of cabbage.

4. It fights cholesterol

It’s a soluble fibre that helps to control and reduce blood cholesterol levels.

5. It prevents cancer

Cruciferous vegetables are well known for their cancer-fighting properties. They have many anticancer compounds, called glucosinolates and isothiocyanates.

How do you eat romanesco?

The best way to eat it is raw, to get the most out of its nutrients. However, it can also be cooked in several ways: boiling, roasting, baking, grating and steaming.

This romanesco recipe is ideal for dinner.

If you make any recipes with it, we look forward to reading them!

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About María José García
María José García
María José has been linked to sport since she was a child when she entered and even competed in various sporting disciplines, such as skating, swimming and gymnastics.
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