Are broccoli crowns better than whole broccoli heads?

Crowns are the same vegetable with the stalk cut away. You pay for less waste and less prep; whole heads give you more weight for the same cooking, including the peeled stalk, which is tender and sweet.

How should I store them?

Keep them unwashed in a loosely open bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer. Use within about three to five days; wet crowns spoil faster, so wash just before cooking.

What is the best way to cook broccoli crowns?

Roast at high heat with oil until the edges brown, or steam and blanch briefly to keep them crisp. Cut pieces to a similar size so they cook evenly.

Blanch the florets for about two minutes, cool in ice water, drain and freeze. Raw crowns frozen directly turn mushy when thawed.

Is organic broccoli worth choosing?

Organic growing avoids synthetic pesticides, which matters to some shoppers. Nutrition is similar to conventional broccoli; choose organic if the growing method is your priority.