Produce companies in New York

What Is Radicchio?

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Radicchio is a versatile leafy vegetable that has captured the attention of chefs and food enthusiasts alike. At E. Armata Inc., our produce companies in New York will explore the world of radicchio, from its origins to its culinary uses and nutritional benefits. Continue reading to discover more! 

 

What is Radicchio?

Radicchio is a member of the chicory family. This vibrant vegetable boasts a striking appearance with its deep red or purple leaves and distinctive bitterness. This vegetable’s roots can be traced back to Italy, where it has been cultivated for many years. Radicchio is commonly grown in the Veneto region of Northern Italy, particularly in Chioggia, famous for its high-quality radicchio.

 

Types of Radicchio

  • Radicchio di Chioggia – Radicchio di Chioggia, often called the “king of radicchios,” is characterized by its compact head of deep red leaves with white veins. It has a pleasantly bitter taste, which mellows when grilled or roasted, making it a popular choice in Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Radicchio di Treviso – Radicchio di Treviso is a variety with elongated, wine-red leaves. It is slightly less bitter than its Chioggia counterpart, making it a versatile ingredient in salads and risotto. The subtle bitterness adds complexity to dishes, creating a delightful contrast.
  • Castelfranco Radicchio – With its stunning appearance, Castelfranco radicchio is a real showstopper. Its pale green leaves are speckled with deep red spots, resembling an artist’s palette. The taste is milder compared to other radicchio varieties, making it an excellent choice for those new to this vegetable.

 

Nutritional Bounty of Radicchio

Beyond its aesthetic appeal and diverse flavors, radicchio offers a treasure trove of health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, radicchio from produce companies in New York can be a valuable addition to your diet. Here are some of the key nutrients found in radicchio:

  • Fiber: Radicchio is an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
  • Vitamins: It is rich in vitamins K and C, contributing to healthy bones and a strong immune system.
  • Antioxidants: Radicchio is brimming with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Folate: This B-vitamin is essential for cell division and can be particularly beneficial for pregnant women.
  • Low-Calorie: Radicchio is low in calories, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals.

 

Contact Us: Produce Companies in New York

Our produce companies in New York at E. Armata Inc. are proud to offer a fine selection of fresh fruits and vegetables to our customers. If you would like to place an order for radicchio, contact us today! 

Broccoli Rabe

What is Broccoli Rabe?

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Broccoli rabe is a tasty green vegetable that looks like leafier broccoli but is actually more closely related to the turnip. Grown around the world, broccoli rabe is one variety of wholesale produce in NYC at E. Armata Inc. There are plenty of things to learn about this delicious cooking green, so continue reading to learn more!  

What is Broccoli Rabe?

Broccoli rabe, or rapini, is a delicious cruciferous vegetable. While most people believe that it is baby broccoli or a small part of the broccoli plant, it is actually closer to the turnip. The delightfully bitter leaves and stems are easy to use to elevate your cooking. Broccoli rabe is used extensively in Chinese and Italian cuisine and is gaining popularity in the United States. Broccoli rabe is available all year round for wholesale produce in NYC. 

How To Cook Broccoli Rabe?

The flower heads, leaves, and stems are prepared and eaten like regular broccoli. Broccoli rabe has a similar flavor to broccoli but is more aromatic with a nuttier flavor. This unique vegetable is surprisingly easy to prepare, as every part of it is edible. Here is how our team at E. Armata Inc. prefers to cook broccoli rabe:

  • Rise the broccoli rabe with cold water and trim ¼ inch from the end of the stems. 
  • Cut the stalks into two-inch pieces and put them into boiling water. 
  • Blanch the broccoli rabe for 2 minutes and remove with a slotted spoon. 
  • Saute the blanched broccoli rabe in garlic and olive oil until the stalks are nice and tender. 

If you are looking for a remarkable and healthy side dish, broccoli rabe is hard to beat. With intense amounts of Vitamins A and K, this vegetable is in a class of its own in terms of health benefits. 

Contact Us

As unique and healthy as broccoli rabe is, it may not be widely available in all grocery stores. Fortunately, E. Armata Inc. offers wholesale produce in NYC and carries broccoli rabe all year round! We pride ourselves on our unique selection of cruciferous vegetables and deliver the freshest products to our customers. To learn more about broccoli rabe, be sure to contact us today!