About Cauliflower
Most people are familiar with cauliflower as one of those vegetables your mother always tried to get you to eat. But there is probably quite a bit that you don't know about cauliflower. It can be used in a variety of delicious meals. By the way, your mother was right, cauliflower is good for you. It is filled with needed vitamins and minerals. Cauliflower is a healthy, nutritious food. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Cauliflower is thought to have originated in Asia Minor, as a form of wild cabbage. It became popular in France around the 16th century. Soon afterward, it was cultivated in northern Europe. The nutritious vegetable eventually made its way to other countries and has since become a food staple in areas such as the United States, France, China and elsewhere.
Features
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Cauliflower is an annual plant that reproduces by seed. It belongs to the cruciferous family of vegetables. It is from the same family of plants as broccoli, cabbage and kale. Cauliflower is a flower that grows from a plant indicating how it got its name. It is a cool season plant grown in New York and California. Cauliflower is available year round.
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Types
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The most familiar type of cauliflower is the pure white variety. Green cauliflower is a hybrid called broccoflower. It looks like white cauliflower but is green in color. Romanesco is a yellowish-green variety of cauliflower that has a milder flavor than the traditional white kind. Purple cauliflower looks like the white type but tastes similar to broccoli. Its appearance can be quite striking and adds a nice visual appeal to meals. Baby cauliflower is identical to the white variety only smaller in size.
Nutrition
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Cauliflower is a healthy source of vitamins and minerals. It is low in fat, high in fiber and protein. A good source of potassium and Vitamin C, it also contains calcium and iron. It is also an excellent source of phosphorus and magnesium. Cauliflower is low on the glycemic food index meaning it releases sugar slowly, making it a good food for diabetics and people who are trying to lose weight.
Planting
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For those interested in planting cauliflower, start from transplants two to three weeks before the last frost. It grows best in cool, moist areas so extreme heat, cold or arid conditions should be avoided. It can grow in a variety of soils but does best in rich, well-drained soil. Cauliflower should be spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart.
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