Broccoletto di Custoza is a variety of broccoli that is grown in the hilly agricultural area of the hamlet of Custoza, in the province of Verona. It is a typical product of the area, so much so that in 2006 it was included in the list of Slow Food Presidia, which protect traditional agri-food products of excellence.
Features
Broccoletto di Custoza stands out for its unique characteristics: it has a short stem and a few leaves, close to the collar, which envelop the small inflorescence. Unlike other broccoli, it has more leaves than inflorescence.
Its leaves are deep green in color and have an elongated and slightly curled shape, they are particularly sweet and tasty, with a delicate and slightly sweet taste, with a nutty aftertaste.
We are dealing with a late product, which is harvested at the first frosts or in winter, its season runs from December to March.
Importance
Broccoletto di Custoza is an important product for the territory of Custoza: it is a typical product, which represents an important source of income for local farmers. In addition, it is a sustainable product, which is grown using traditional methods that respect the environment.
Uses in the kitchen
Broccoletto di Custoza is a versatile ingredient that can be used in cooking in a variety of ways: it can be cooked in boiling water, steamed or in a pan, and it can be seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. It can also be used to make soups, minestrone, omelettes, risottos and pasta.
Here are some ideas for using Custoza broccoli in the kitchen:
- Steamed Custoza broccoli with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper: it is a simple and quick recipe that allows you to enjoy the natural flavor of broccoli.
- Broccoli di Custoza in a pan with garlic and chilli: it is a tastier recipe, which is prepared with garlic, chili pepper and extra virgin olive oil.
- Custoza broccoli soup: it is a warm and comforting soup, which is prepared with vegetable broth, broccoli, potatoes and hard-boiled eggs.
- Custoza broccoli soup: it is a nutritious and tasty soup, which is prepared with vegetable broth, broccoli, barley and beans.
- Custoza broccoli omelette: it is a simple and quick omelette, which is prepared with broccoli, eggs, cheese and salt.
- Custoza broccoli risotto: it is a creamy and tasty risotto, which is prepared with rice, broccoli, cheese and white wine.
- Pasta with broccoli from Custoza: it is a simple and tasty first course, which is prepared with pasta, broccoli, cheese and extra virgin olive oil.
Slow Food Presidia
The Slow Food Presidia are a project created in 1996 to safeguard traditional agri-food products of excellence. Presidia are products that have a strong link with the territory, that are cultivated with sustainable methods and that represent an important source of biodiversity.
They are important because they help to maintain agricultural biodiversity, safeguard local culinary traditions, and promote sustainable agriculture.
Custoza broccoli is one of the 350 Slow Food Presidia in Italy. It is a unique and precious product that deserves to be known and appreciated.
