Just envision, if you will, the experience of being a broccoli stem. Throughout your entire existence, you strive to adorn yourself with flowers, only to have the adornment steal all the accolades, claiming all the praise for itself. Your exquisite florets are snatched away, destined to be incorporated into some esteemed culinary masterpiece, while you, the forlorn stalk, are callously discarded. It cuts deep. Really deep. Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way, nor should it. Broccoli stems merit recognition of their own, so if you’re among those who habitually discard them, perhaps it’s time for a reconsideration.
Broccoli stems offer a multitude of possibilities. Consider them akin to kohlrabi, essentially a hefty, bulbous broccoli stem. Kohlrabi can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, boasting a gentle flavor and a crunchy, succulent core—similarly true for broccoli stems.
To begin, assess the toughness of their exteriors, peeling off any woody portions that may have formed over time. Following this, the choice is yours. If you have ample stems, slicing them into sticks or rounds and sautéing them in a sizzling pan with oil can produce browned, flavorful spots.
Another option is pickling them in a brine, as demonstrated in my swift pickled asparagus recipe. This method is equally effective for broccoli stems. (Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, including various herbs or opting to omit them.)
However, truth be told, I seldom go to such lengths. Typically, I opt to consume the broccoli stems in their raw state, either tossed into a salad or elegantly arranged on a platter and drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkling of flaky sea salt. They require minimal embellishments. It serves as a delightful pre-dinner nibble for the chef—simply a treat, unlikely to spoil one’s appetite.
Moreover, if you find yourself assembling a platter of crudités, I urge you to incorporate broccoli stems among the vegetable array. Frankly, they surpass those lackluster raw florets, which already receive an excess of acclaim—they certainly don’t need any more unwarranted praise.
Remember, broccoli stems possess untapped potential, awaiting discovery beyond their customary fate of being discarded. Embrace the versatility of these oft-overlooked components, and savor the satisfaction of utilizing every part of this resilient vegetable.
