Vegetables

How to Use Broccoli Rabe and Grow this leafy Green If you are looking for a cool season leafy green that produces small florets similar to Broccolini (but smaller) then Broccoli Rabe is one to try. Its also known as rapini and a few varieties are available. This is a plant that many in Italy grow and in Puglia and Sicily it is a must. Famous for the dish Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa which is a simple dish consisting of blanched Broccoli rabe leaves, anchovies, garlic and breadcrumbs ( and lots of olive oil) it is used to make a sauce that is served with Orecchiette. How to Grow Broccoli Rabe The seeds are small are are sown in early winter, spring and autumn/fall. however this does depend a little on your climate zone. Choose a sunny position.Dig the soil over well and add some aged cow manure.Sow the seeds around 3 -4 inches apart (10cm) but don't worry if they are closer, you can always thin them out.Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser and thats about it.he seeds will germinate within 14 days.Watch out for snails and slugs. For a continuous supply we suggest planting in succession, one sowing every 3 weeks in the season. When to harvest You can wait until the first flower stalk appear and then harvest. OR what until the leaves are large enough and then harvest as you wish. This is a cut and come again leafy green.Harvest time can differ between the different varieties, (around 4 of these) so harvest on look of the plant rather than on the number of weeks. How to Use Broccoli Rabe The stems can have a slightly bitter taste when raw but this is neutralised when you blanch them. Blanch by placing salted boiling water for 2 minutes. Use Rape or Rapini in the classic recipe, Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa. Or try it Sauteed with onions and red pepper and garlic.

Broccoli Rabe

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