Growing romanesco: A step-by-step guide
Ready to dive into something extraordinary? Give romanesco a shot - it's a brassica that bridges the gap between a cauliflower and broccoli. In this brief video, Monty Don, a gardening guru and television personality, walks you through the process of planting it outdoors, offering advice on soil prep and spacing. He also dishes on the best ways to cook it.
Although there aren't any specifics on Monty's growth and cooking techniques for romanesco broccoli, here's a general guide based on common practices:
Growing Romanesco Broccoli
Romanesco is a cool-season crop, also known as Roman Cauliflower or Broccolo Romanesco. Here are some tips for starting your own:
- Sow the seeds around 1.5 cm (¾ inch) deep in peat-free seed compost, maintaining a soil temperature between 12–22°C (54–72°F) for ideal germination.
- Transplant seedlings to their final positions when they're around six weeks old, spacing them 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart.
- Romanesco prefers cool climate and can thrive in both spring and fall gardens. It requires well-draining soil and consistent moisture.
Cooking Romanesco Broccoli
Romanesco lends itself well to various cooking methods, showcasing its distinct flavor and texture:
- Roast it by cutting into florets, tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasting at 200°C (400°F) until tender and caramelized.
- Steam it until tender, then serve with butter or lemon juice.
- Sauté the florets in a pan with garlic and olive oil for a tasty and quick side dish.
Monty Don, a well-known British horticulturist and broadcaster, frequently shares his gardening wisdom on television and in books. Even though specific guidance from him on Romanesco might be scarce, these general tips should help you cultivate and savor this stunning and nutritious vegetable. Enjoy the growing process!
Incorporate romanesco broccoli into your lifestyle by growing it at home, following these tips: germinate seeds at a soil temperature of 12–22°C (54–72°F), transplant seedlings 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart when they're six weeks old, and provide well-draining soil and consistent moisture for optimal growth. Additionally, romanesco lends itself well to home-and-garden activities like gardening, as it can be roasted, steamed, or sautéed for a delicious meal.
