Know About Broccoli: Nutrition, Health Benefits, Use & Types

Broccoli has become one of the most talked-about vegetables in India. Once considered exotic, it is now a familiar sight in supermarkets and even local markets. Many people still wonder what is broccoli, how it is different from cauliflower, and whether broccoli is good for health. With its rich nutrition profile, low calories, and numerous health benefits, broccoli has earned the reputation of being a “superfood.” In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the broccoli vegetable its meaning, pronunciation, nutrition, protein content, benefits for men and women, and its names in different Indian languages.

What is Broccoli?

Broccoli is a green, edible plant from the cabbage family (Brassicaceae). The main edible part is the broccoli flower, which grows in tight clusters on thick stalks. Both the florets and stalks are eaten, either raw or cooked.

Broccoli scientific name: Brassica oleracea var. italica
Broccoli pronunciation: brok-uh-lee
Types of broccoli: Calabrese broccoli (common), sprouting broccoli, and purple broccoli.

Broccoli in Indian Languages

Since broccoli is not native to India, its name in most regional languages is simply an adaptation of the English word. Still, many people search for broccoli in Hindi name or broccoli in Tamil name to understand how it is recognized in local markets.

Language	Broccoli Name
Hindi	ब्रोकोली (Broccoli)
Tamil	ப்ரோக்கோலி (Prokkoli)
Telugu	బ్రోకోలీ (Broccoli)
Kannada	ಬ್ರೊಕ್ಕೋಲಿ (Brokkoli)
Marathi	ब्रोकोली (Broccoli)
Gujarati	બ્રોકોલી (Broccoli)
Malayalam	ബ്രൊക്കോളി (Brokkoli)

So, whether you’re searching for broccoli in Telugu, broccoli in Kannada, or broccoli in Marathi, the name largely remains the same.

Broccoli Nutrition: 100g Facts

Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables you can add to your diet. Even though broccoli calories are very low, it is loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Broccoli nutrition (per 100 grams):

Calories: 34
Protein: 2.8 g
Carbohydrates: 6.6 g
Fiber: 2.6 g
Vitamin C: 89 mg (149% of daily requirement)
Vitamin K: 102 mcg (over 100% of daily requirement)
Folate: 63 mcg
Potassium: 316 mg
Calcium: 47 mg

This balance of nutrients makes broccoli stand out compared to many other vegetables. Its protein content is higher than most greens, and its Vitamin C levels even surpass those of oranges. Like zucchini vegetable, broccoli was once an unfamiliar sight in Indian kitchens but is now becoming a part of modern diets thanks to its nutrition value.

What Are The Health Benefits of Broccoli?

The health benefits of broccoli are the reason it is called a superfood. From immunity to bone strength, this vegetable contributes to overall well-being. General Benefits of Eating Broccoli:

Boosts Immunity: Thanks to Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Improves Digestion: High fiber supports gut health.
Protects Bones: Calcium and Vitamin K strengthen bones.
Weight Control: Low calories and high fiber keep you full.
Heart Health: Antioxidants lower cholesterol and support circulation.
Skin Health: Regular intake helps prevent dullness, promotes collagen production, and keeps skin glowing.

Here are some of the Broccoli Benefits for male and female health:

Broccoli benefits for male health: Helps with prostate health, fertility, and immunity.
Broccoli benefits for female health: Supports reproductive health, prevents osteoporosis, and is rich in folate for pregnancy.

Adding broccoli to seasonal meals alongside winter vegetables in India can further boost overall nutrition during colder months.

The Difference Between Cauliflower vs Broccoli

Since they look similar, many people ask about cauliflower vs broccoli. Both belong to the cabbage family but differ in nutrition and taste.

Feature	Cauliflower	Broccoli
Color	White florets	Green florets (sometimes purple)
Calories	25 per 100 g	34 per 100 g
Protein	1.9 g per 100 g	2.8 g per 100 g
Nutrition	Good Vitamin C, fewer antioxidants	Higher Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate
Taste	Mild, nutty	Slightly bitter, earthy

Broccoli generally offers more antioxidants and protein, while cauliflower has a lighter flavor. Both are nutritious, and alternating them in meals is a smart choice.

What Are The Uses of Broccoli?

The uses of broccoli go beyond being just a vegetable. It can be eaten raw in salads, lightly steamed, stir-fried, or added to soups. Because of its rich nutrients, broccoli is often included in weight-loss diets and children’s meals. Farmers are also experimenting with how to grow broccoli in Indian conditions, especially in cooler regions like Himachal Pradesh and Ooty, making it more widely available than ever.

What Are The Types of Broccoli?

Most people are familiar with common green broccoli, but there are multiple types of broccoli, including:

Calabrese Broccoli: Most widely available.
Sprouting Broccoli: Produces smaller florets.
Purple Broccoli: Known for its sweeter taste and higher antioxidants.

Each type has its own appeal, but all are highly nutritious.

Conclusion

Broccoli is more than just another green vegetable; it is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. With low calories, high protein for a vegetable, and a wealth of vitamins, it supports immunity, bone strength, digestion, and skin wellness. Whether you are curious about broccoli in Hindi, comparing cauliflower vs broccoli, or looking into broccoli benefits for male and female health, this vegetable deserves a place in your diet.