Broccoli rab, also known as rapini, is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It is a member of the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. Broccoli rab has a slightly bitter taste and is often sautéed or steamed to reduce its bitterness.
Definitions
Broccoli rab is a vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is characterized by its long, thin stems and small, leafy greens. The vegetable is known for its slightly bitter taste, which is often described as nutty or pungent.
Origin
Broccoli rab is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where it has been cultivated for centuries. The vegetable was first introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, where it quickly gained popularity among Italian immigrants.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, broccoli rab is “a leafy vegetable with long, slender stems and small, bitter leaves that is related to broccoli and turnips and is used especially in Italian cooking.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines broccoli rab as “a vegetable of the brassica family, with thin stems and small, leafy greens, used in Italian cuisine.”
Associations
Broccoli rab is often associated with Italian cuisine, where it is used in dishes such as pasta, risotto, and pizza. The vegetable is also commonly used in Chinese cuisine, where it is stir-fried with garlic and other vegetables.
Synonyms
Synonyms for broccoli rab include rapini, cime di rapa, and broccoletti di rape.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for broccoli rab, as it is a specific type of vegetable.
The same root words
Broccoli rab is derived from the Italian word “rapa,” which means turnip. The vegetable is also related to other members of the Brassica family, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.
Example Sentences
- I love the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rab in my pasta dishes.
- The sautéed broccoli rab added a delicious nutty flavor to the pizza.
- Broccoli rab is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.