Our fresh Aussie Broccoli migration

100% of our Broccoli is grown right here in Australia.

It’s because of our Aussie first supplier policy, committing us to buy fresh produce from Aussie farmers, whenever possible. In fact, 97% of our entire fresh produce range comes from Australian farms. It’s just another reason why you should eat your greens.

Get your head around these interesting broccoli facts:

Where do ALDI's broccoli migrate from?

ALDI's broccoli migrates from farms in the Lockyer Valley in QLD and the Werribee region in VIC. Just like other supermarkets, our stuff comes from all over Australia. The big difference isn’t the produce, it’s the ALDI prices.

Meet Aussie broccoli grower, Joseph Fragapane.

Farming is in Joseph’s blood. He embraced the farming life from a young age, learning the vital skills from his father and grandfather. Located in Werribee South, Fragapane Farms grows broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce and other leafy greens. Werribee South is one of the pioneer vegetable production regions in Australia, with rich alluvial soil close to Melbourne’s iconic Port Phillip Bay. ALDI has played a big part in the growth of Fragapane Farms, with close collaboration and innovation being hallmarks of the relationship. 

Get your head around these interesting broccoli tips and tricks

When is broccoli season in Australia?

Available all year round, this delicious and versatile veg is always a winner for family dinners. If the kids don’t like the idea of eating broccoli all year round, you can always hide your broccoli as rice, in an omelette, in pasta, or blended as part of a sauce. 

How to keep broccoli fresh

Choose broccoli which has a heavy head and deep, green colour. Store in your fridge’s crisper to ensure your broccoli lasts for its 5-day lifespan. 

How to freeze broccoli

To freeze broccoli, you’ll need to blanch it first in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before storing it in an air-tight bag or container. This is an important step because if you freeze raw broccoli, it will end up coming out bitter, shrivelled and lose its colour.

Can you eat broccoli leaves and broccoli stems?

Great news, you can eat both! Broccoli leaves are kale-like in nature, and can be enjoyed roasted or sauteed. Whilst broccoli stems are thicker and firmer than florets, they can be enjoyed just the same, just be sure to cut them in smaller pieces so that they can break-down in the cooking process. You can even blend your broccoli stems and use them as added flavour and veg to sauces like this gluten-free pesto. 

How to cook broccoli in the microwave.

Microwaving is an easy, quick and healthy way to cook your broccoli. In a microwave-safe dish, add 2-4 teaspoons of water and your broccoli. Then, cover the dish with a loose lid and microwave for 2-4 minutes or until your broccoli is cooked all the way through.  

Get the most from your broccoli.

When raw, their crispness is great in salads. Roasting broccoli releases even more flavour and gives the leaves a satisfying crispness.

What is the origin of broccoli farming?

Broccoli farming stems all the way to the Roman Empire, nearly 2,000 years ago. The broccoli we see today is a result of breeding wild cabbages. If it can fuel the gladiators, it can fuel your family.

What are some croud pleasing broccoli recipes that I can try?

The era of hating on broccoli is over! When raw, their crispness is great in salads. Roasting broccoli releases even more flavour and gives the leaves a satisfying crispness. And for the broccoli-converted, steaming is a quick and easy way to add some delicious broccs to your plate. For more inspiration, check out our broccoli recipes below.