Broccolini, a hybrid vegetable, has gained immense popularity in the UK and Australia, surpassing asparagus consumption and even featuring at high-profile state events.
Broccolini, a hybrid vegetable combining regular broccoli and Chinese kale (gai lan), was created in 1993 by Sakata Inc., a Japanese seed company. Developed through classical breeding techniques by a Sakata broccoli breeder, broccolini has gained significant popularity over the past three decades. Originally intended to be named “asparbroc” or “asparation,” the vegetable found its niche under the trade names “broccolini” and “tenderstem broccoli.”
Despite its relatively recent introduction, broccolini has become a staple in many households. In the UK, it ranks as the 25th most popular vegetable, and its consumption surpasses that of asparagus. Market data shows that 27.5% of British households and nearly half of Australian households buy broccolini regularly, with the British eating approximately 750 tonnes monthly.
Notably, broccolini has also featured in high-profile state events. When Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the US in 2023, broccolini was served at both a state luncheon hosted by President Biden and a private dinner with top executives from Apple and BlackRock.
Sakata licenses companies worldwide to grow and sell broccolini. In Australia, Perfection Fresh holds the exclusive license, selling around 60 million bunches annually. Despite its premium price, demand continues to grow, although Sakata has noted its limited popularity in France due to the country’s preference for traditional culinary practices.
While broccolini’s convenient shape and cooking versatility contribute to its appeal, some food critics emphasize the benefits of traditional broccoli. They argue that peeled and cooked broccoli stalks can be sweeter. However, broccolini’s aesthetic appeal and ease of preparation have cemented its status in modern cuisine.