Raffi at 12:33, 28 March 2007

2007-03-28T12:33:07Z

New page

{{Infobox Cultivar | name = Rapini
| image = Rapini.jpg
| image_width = 250px
| species = ''[[Brassica rapa]]''
| group = Ruvo group
| subdivision = unknown
}}

'''Rapini''' is a common [[vegetable]] in [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese]] and [[Italian cuisine]]. It is also known by other names, including Broccoli Rabe (or Raab), ''Broccoletti'', ''Broccoli di Rape'', ''Cime di Rapa'' or ''Grelos''. It is similar to, but much more bitter than, [[Chinese broccoli]]. The plant has various [[scientific classification]] designations, including ''Brassica rapa ruvo'', ''Brassica rapa rapifera'', ''Brassica ruvo'', ''Brassica campestris ruvo'', and ''[[Brassica rapa rapa]]'' (a name normally assigned to the [[turnip]]).

Rapini has many spiked leaves that surround a green bud which looks very similar to a small head of broccoli.
The flavor of rapini has been described as nutty, bitter, pungent, and 'an acquired taste'. Rapini is a source of [[vitamins]] [[vitamin A|A]], [[vitamin C|C]], and [[Vitamin K|K]], as well as [[potassium]], [[calcium]], and [[iron]]. It is one of the most popular vegetables in [[China]], especially in [[Hong Kong]], where it is know as "choi sum" 菜心. However the Chinese cultivar is of a lighter green colour, not at all bitter or pungent, and more tender. There may be small yellow flowers blooming from the buds, which are edible.

The vegetable probably descends from a wild herb, a relative of the [[turnip]], that grew either in [[China]] or the [[Mediterranean]] region. It is now grown throughout the world. Rapini is available all year long, but its peak season is from fall to spring.

==External link==
*[http://whatscookingamerica.net/Vegetables/BroccoliRaab.htm Broccoli raab]
*[http://www.foodsdatabase.com/LinkedLabel.aspx?FoodId=20392 Nutrition facts]

[[Category:Leaf vegetables]]
[[Category:Brassica]]

Rapini - Revision history

Raffi at 12:33, 28 March 2007