Almost all the best-known cruciferous vegetables come from a single species, Brassica oleracea, in the Brassicaceae family
Cruciferous vegetables are a diverse group of vegetables belonging to the family Brassicaceae, also called ‘Cruciferae.’ The second name refers to the distinct cross shape of the flowers of the plants in the family. That is the origin of the name ‘cruciferous’ for the group.
These vibrant and colorful vegetables can be a great addition to almost any dish, whether stir-fries and roasts or stews, salads, and casseroles. Additionally, they are counted among the healthiest vegetables, containing many essential nutrients and minerals, most notably being rich in vitamin C, soluble fibers, and sulfur. The characteristic pungent, sometimes bitter, flavor and taste of these vegetables come from the sulfur-containing compounds (glucosinolates) they have. Research also suggests they have cancer-preventive properties.
List of the Different Types of Cruciferous Vegetables
Like most other fruit and vegetable groups, the cruciferous group consists of both naturally occurring species as well as hybrids and cultivars.
Naturally Occurring Species
| Radish Horseradish Wasabi Arugula (Rocket) | Tatsoi Maca Garden Cress Field Pepperweed | Land Cress Watercress Ethiopian Mustard Mustard Greens Wild Arugula |
Hybrids and Cultivars
| Cabbage Broccoli Cauliflower Chinese Cabbage (Bok Choy) Collard Greens Brussels Sprouts Kale Savoy Cabbage Kohlrabi | Daikon Chinese Broccoli (Gai-lan) Broccolini Turnip Chinese Cabbage (Napa Cabbage) Mizuna Siberian Kale Wild Broccoli | Rutabaga (Swede) Broccoflower Rapini (Broccoli Rabe) Choy Sum (Flowering Cabbage) Canola (Rapeseed) Wrapped Heart Mustard Cabbage Broccoli Romanesco Komatsuna |
Almost all the best-known cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and kohlrabi, come from a single species, Brassica oleracea, in the Brassicaceae family. Together, these vegetables are referred to as cole crops or brassicas.
Despite their rich nutrient contents, cruciferous vegetables can be difficult to digest for some individuals, especially if eaten raw. It is due to the indigestible sugars they contain. Usually, cooking is believed to make them easier to digest.
Credit: onlyfoods.net
