Baby Broccoli

A variety of vegetable that is a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It has an appearance similar to asparagus or gai lan, with smaller broccoli buds on top. Eaten raw, it is a tender, less fibrous stalk than broccoli or kale, that is crunchy and flavorful. Used in the same manner as traditional broccoli, this vegetable can be served in salads or as an appetizer with a dip. It is however, very adaptable to stir fried vegetable dishes and can be sautéed in olive oil to provide a deliciously flavored vegetable complement to a meal. Baby broccoli may also be referred to as Broccolini, a trademarked name for this vegetable.