Rapini
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? Rapini |
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Trinomial name
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| Brassica rapa ruvo L. |
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| Brassica rapa rapifera Brassica ruvo Brassica campestris ruvo |
Rapini is a common vegetable in Chinese and Italian cuisine. It is also known by many other names, including Broccoli di Rabe or Broccoli di Raab. Despite this name, the plant is not closely related to broccoli. The plant has various scientific classification designations, including Brassica rapa ruvo, Brassica rapa rapifera, Brassica ruvo, Brassica campestris ruvo, and Brassica rapa rapa (a name normally assigned to the turnip).
Rapini has many spiked leaves that surround a green bud which looks very similar to a small head of broccoli. The flavor of rapini has been described as nutty, bitter, pungent, and 'an acquired taste'. Rapini is a source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, calcium, and iron. It is one of the most popular vegetables in China, especially in Hong Kong.
The vegetable probably descends from a wild herb, a relative of the turnip, that grew either in China or the Mediterranean region. It is now grown throughout the world. Rapini is available all year long, but its peak season is from fall to spring.