Origin of Broccoli Appearance
The green vegetable broccoli has a very instantly recognizable appearance. Its vibrant green color and tightly bunched florets are an easily noticeable part of any plate of vegetables. Upon closer inspection, it is clear that the vegetable resembles a mini-tree; becoming the unofficial mascot of the category. There is an interesting story behind the vegetable’s appearance, and answers the questions of why does broccoli look like a tree.
The development of the broccoli look was largely man-made. Scientists, both in the 18th century and early 20th century, used selective breeding techniques to “change” broccoli from its origin, a wild cabbage found in the Italian countryside. Over the span of time, the removal of different features from the vegetable resulted in the result of the species seen today. Thankfully, broccoli was spared the once-popular practice of “treeing,” the process of forcing trees to produce fruit, which was a less natural way of producing produce.
Within the green broccoli species, there are a number of different types. These take on different aspects of the broccoli tree, and can be split into stem types and loose heading types. The stem types include: Calabrese varieties, growing the iconic large heads at the end of tall stems; Sprouting varieties, smaller in size but with thinner stems; and Chinese types, wider stem varieties with high sugar content. The loose-heading type also includes: Headed varieties, with smaller but multiple bunches with smaller heads; Stemless varieties, with the same style of short thin stems as the sprouting types, but without heads; and Fall varieties, harvested in the late part of the season.
The look of the broccoli, and the various science-driven factors which contributed to its development, have made it the ideal vegetable for many meals. Its texture is softer than many other crunchy vegetables, but firm enough to remain a recognizable piece on a plate. The flavor profile is great, from the Calabrese variety to the Chinese types and beyond. Its nutritional value is also very high, with the majority of vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy lifestyle found within the vegetable.
Recognition and Cultural Impact
The broccoli tree has had a large cultural impact around the globe. Its look has been placed in two contexts, the nutrition experience and the culinary experience. On the nutrition side, broccoli has been featured for years in various health guides, from its antioxidant values to its colon-cleansing powers. On the culinary side, the broccoli tree has been well-loved for its versatility. It easily pops with simplicity, from steaming and mashing for children to adding extra flavor for a more complex dish. It can be found in a number of dairy-free meals, as well as being served as an entree, steamed entree or salad fix.
The global influence of the broccoli tree has allowed different cultures to embrace it in their own way. In Italy, where the vegetable was cultivated, it can be found as an appetizer or insalata. In Eastern Asia, larger Calabrese varieties are used for Kung Pao or moo shu dishes. In North America, the vegetable has become a go-to for healthy snacks and meals, and even a favorite of children who may not otherwise be able to find vegetables they can identify.
Beyond just the physical-sensation aspect of the broccoli tree, there are a number of cultural influences which have developed around it. Broccoli is the official color of the United States, often known as “Brogen.” It has become a “badge of honor” for vegetarians, with many restaurants offering small “Brocolli trees” as a visual representation of vegetarian-ness. Additionally, the vegetable has found itself in a number of entertainment contexts, from television shows like “Bring Out The Broccoli” featuring guest appearances by the vegetable to film franchises like the “Broccoli Kids” featuring the vegetable in the plot.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of the broccoli tree is also one to be noticed. The vegetable is a relatively low maintenance plant, able to grow in a variety of climates with little additional resources in comparison to other produce. The plant does not require much in the way of pesticides, and can be easily managed with natural resources. In a world with environmental resources showing more and more strain, this is very encouraging.
The production of the broccoli tree is also largely sustainable. The majority of the plant comes from farming systems which are protect the integrity of the land they cultivate. Plus, the vegetable also has the advantage of being able to be grown in various areas, giving access to farmers who may not have had access to other produce.
The vegetable also has surprisingly low carbon footprint. Between energy for transporting and refrigeration, as well as fertilizers and soil augmentation, the broccoli tree has the lowest carbon footprint of any vegetable. This is of particular interest when considering the trend of consumers looking to more sustainable food sources.
The production and presence of the broccoli tree also has the beneficial factor of creating jobs. From the farms to the markets to the delivery systems, the broccoli tree has been an important part of the global economy, creating employment opportunities for farmers, delivery drivers, and greengrocers.
Nutritional Benefits
The nutritional value of broccoli is one of the most celebrated aspects of the vegetable. It provides the majority of the vitamins and minerals needed for an individual to stay healthy, including: Vitamins A, C, and K; Folic acid; Potassium; Magnesium; Calcium; Fiber; Iron; and Omega-3 fatty acids. This makes broccoli an ideal addition to a meal for anyone looking for a balanced and nutritional intake.
The fact that broccoli is high in fiber, and low in calories, makes it great for weight loss. Its fiber content ensures that it fills an individual up and keeps them fuller for longer. Additionally, broccoli plays a major role in reducing cravings for sugary and fatty foods, and is known to be a major contributor in reducing the overall calorie consumption of a person.
The anti-oxidant effects of broccoli are also well-known. This is thanks to the presence of the natural compound polyphenol in the vegetable. The compound helps protect cells from damage and promotes healthy cell function. This helps encourage overall better health for an individual.
The positive impact of broccoli on the health of a person is not limited to just physical wellbeing. Studies show that the presence of the broccoli within an individual’s diet also contributes to better mental health. This is due to the presence of sulfur, which is an important element in reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Preserving the Broccoli Tree
Given the ecological, environmental, and nutritional benefits of the broccoli tree, it is important to ensure its presence in our lives. Fortunately, with seeds of the broccoli tree so easily found, it is easy to grow the vegetable in one’s own garden. Additionally, there are a number of online resources which can provide guidance on the best ways to cultivate, fertilize, and care for the vegetable in different climates.
Commercial production of the broccoli tree is going strong around the world. Consumer demand for the product has increased in recent years, as people become more aware of its nutritional content. This has resulted in the vegetable being prominent in popular grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Just as its is important to “go green” in our daily lives, it is just as important to support the “green” vegetables which help make it possible.
Health Impact
It is clear that the broccoli tree is beneficial for many, and its impact on our diet and health cannot be overstated. The presence of the numerous vitamins and minerals help ensure that our bodies and minds are healthy. Additionally, regular intake of the vegetable ensures that we can remain fuller for longer, and reduction of sugar and fat cravings.
The environmental impact of the vegetable through sustainable production, as well as the positive effects on local economies should not be forgotten. The broccoli tree is a testament to humanity’s capacity to create something beneficial for all.
In terms of daily consumption, the broccoli tree can be found in a variety of forms. It can be cooked or steamed, or eaten raw in a salad or entrée. Recipes can easily be found online, allowing one to dive into the various uses of the vegetable
