Bimi: what is it and what are the benefits of this vegetable that is already sold in supermarkets

The bimi is a vegetable that emerged in Japan in 1993 by a natural hybridization between broccoli and a variety of oriental cabbage known as kai-ian or Chinese cabbage. Its appearance can be quite reminiscent of common broccoli, although its head is somewhat smaller and its stem is longer, its flavor is also softer and sweeter, so it can be eaten raw or slightly cooked. But why has it become a star food? Which has benefits?

What is bimi?

Bimi is a super vegetable loaded with vitamins, essential nutrients and very beneficial properties for the body. Since it emerged as a result of the hybridization between broccoli and Chinese cabbage, it has become an essential food in any healthy and balanced diet. In fact, it is currently considered one of the healthiest vegetables out there .

Properties

Bimi is rich in substances with an anticancer effect , such as glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates, which are responsible for the elimination of tumor cells . In addition, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties , among which flavonoids stand out, which have an antitumor effect on the body . In terms of nutrients, it is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc , fiber, potassium, and vitamins B and C. In fact, it has even more vitamin C than orange. And to all this are added its plant compounds, which act as prebiotics feeding the intestinal flora ; and its antibacterial substances, which could have a medicinal use .

El bimi es una superverdura

What are the benefits of bimi?

Due to all its properties, bimi is very beneficial for the body, especially because it is a strong antioxidant and its anticancer compounds. And as it contains polyphenols, it is ideal to fight tumor cells and even to prevent and control cardiovascular diseases and some metabolic diseases , such as obesity. Bimi is also a food with a high fiber content and a low caloric intake, which makes it an ingredient with a high nutritional density but with few calories and, therefore, perfect for losing weight in a safe and healthy way . This super vegetable also serves to increase the body’s defenses and keep the body away from colds, flu and other diseases or infections.

How to introduce it in the diet?

Bimi is a very versatile and delicious vegetable , so it is very easy to introduce it into any diet. It can be treated the same way broccoli is treated and can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, sautéed, baked, or broiled . It is best to cook very little so that it does not lose nutrients.

Recetas con bimi

Some simple recipes

Bimi sautéed with ham tacos

For this simple elaboration, the foils or tips of the bimi will be used. In a frying pan, brown the sliced garlic, add the bimi florets and sauté everything until it is slightly toasted. Then the ham blocks are added.

Omelette with bimi stems

The omelette is something very versatile and you can add anything to it. In this case some stems of bimi are taken and they are sautéed a little so that they are tender and juicy. Then they are added to the beaten egg and the omelette is made in the pan.

Bimi as a garnish

Another option is to use the bimi as a garnish. It can be the ideal companion for both fish and meat. In this case you can sauté the bimi a little in the pan with a drop of olive oil for a maximum of one minute.

Because of its popularity, the bimi can be found at any grocery store or supermarket. So there are no more excuses to add it to the diet.