Broccoli

Texturally, broccoli can be considered two vegetables in one. Each stalk of broccoli consists of a thick, meaty-fleshed stem and a lacy, open crown. The classic presentation for broccoli is fabricated into spears consisting of peeled stem and crown. It is more common today to serve only the florets, or crown pieces, which are favored for their distinctive shape and texture. Nonetheless, broccoli stems are delicious in their own right, with a mild flavor and tender texture under the thick, fibrous skin. Because of this skin, broccoli stems must be peeled before they are cooked or eaten raw.