Purple Sprouting Broccoli (seeds)
Purple Sprouting Broccoli (PSB) is a delightful winter and early spring vegetable that belongs to the brassica family. It’s a slender and more colorful cousin of the well-known calabrese broccoli.
What Is Purple Sprouting Broccoli?
PSB features long, tender stems and purple heads. When you grow PSB, you’ll have a central stem along with numerous side shoots, all of which are edible (including the leaves).
How to Prepare Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Equal Sizing: Keep all the pieces relatively equal in size for even cooking.
Trim Woody Ends: Cut off or peel the woody ends to enhance your PSB eating experience.
Crown: For the main head (crown), divide it into manageable pieces and peel the woody membrane on the stalks.
Shoots: For long side shoots, consider cutting off the bottom half of the stalk and peel it to prevent waste.
Stalks: Save the stalks for homemade veggie stock. Use the smaller leaves attached to the stems—they’re edible and tasty.
Cooking Methods for Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Boiling: Cook in boiling water until tender (usually about 4-5 minutes).
Steaming: Steam for a similar duration until fork-tender.
Stir-Frying: Quickly stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
Griddling: Grill on a hot griddle pan for a smoky flavor.
Roasting: Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Air Frying: If you have an air fryer, try air-frying PSB for a crispy texture.
Raw: When very young and tender, PSB can be eaten raw with your favorite dip1.
Serving Suggestions
- PSB pairs well with lemon zest, toasted almonds, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add it to pasta dishes, risottos, or grain bowls.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a simple vinaigrette.
- Enjoy it as a side dish or incorporate it into salads.
Remember, PSB is not only nutritious but also a vibrant addition to your meals!