BROCCOLI, a large green vegetable resembling the cauli flower in appearance, and the cabbage in flavour. Botanically it is a variety of cabbage (Brassica oleracea Var. italica) . The centre containing the curds of buds is less compact than that of the cauliflower and the leaves are smaller than those of the cab bage. Broccoli is used extensively in Italian cookery. If boiled and then allowed to simmer in olive-oil to which garlic has been added, it is especially delicious.