Peak harvest season for this South African-grown star elevates plates with chef-approved versatility from breakfast to dinner.
Near South Africa’s Botswana border, the fields are bursting with a deep green treasure — Tenderstem® broccoli. As it reaches its seasonal peak from mid-September to mid-October, chefs across the country are celebrating this premium vegetable for its ability to transform simple meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. It’s broccoli, only better.
With local crops at their finest, now is the perfect time to discover why Tenderstem® broccoli deserves a starring role on South African plates — from fine dining menus to weeknight dinners.
“We’re seeing incredible creativity from chefs who understand that Tenderstem® is not just another green on the side. It’s a standout ingredient with real personality – bold enough to carry a dish, quick enough to suit any schedule, and refined enough to feature on the best menus in the country,” .
says Dave Samuels, EMEA Brand Director for Tenderstem®
Through the Tender Conversations campaign, Tenderstem® has teamed up with acclaimed local chefs such as Masego Mbonyana, Raymond Ncube, and Shazia Gaffar to explore its versatility and inspire South Africans to think beyond the side dish.
A Star Ingredient for Every Occasion
The sweet, crunchy, and tender vegetable has become a chef favourite for its versatility. From braai nights to gourmet brunches, Tenderstem® broccoli adapts effortlessly:
- Charred on the braai with lemon and chilli salt
- Blitzed into a zhoug-style sauce for added freshness
- Crisped in the oven with miso and sesame seeds
- Stirred through scrambled eggs with feta and herbs
- Blended into green smoothie bowls
- Even featured in desserts, where its natural sweetness complements chocolate tarts
For entertaining, Tenderstem® shines in tempura-style fritters with spicy aioli, or as the base for grain bowls topped with pomegranate, toasted nuts, and tahini dressing. Even quick weeknight meals benefit when it’s stir-fried with garlic and chilli or tossed through lemon-parmesan pasta.
Why It’s Better Than Ordinary Broccoli
What sets Tenderstem® apart is its naturally tender texture and distinctly sweet, nutty flavour. Unlike traditional broccoli that can become bitter or mushy, every part of Tenderstem® — from floret to stem — offers consistent taste and texture, cooking in just minutes.
“Chefs know they can depend on its quality and flavour, which is why we’re encouraging restaurants to proudly list ‘Tenderstem® broccoli’ on their menus. It’s a mark of premium ingredient sourcing that truly stands out.”
adds Samuels
Packed with Nutrition
Tenderstem® broccoli doesn’t just taste exceptional — it’s nutrient-rich too. Just 80g counts as one of your five-a-day, offering:
- High levels of folate, vitamin A, and vitamin C for immune support
- Fibre for digestive health
- Potassium for heart and nervous system function
This powerhouse vegetable proves that healthy eating can also be indulgent and flavourful.
At Its Peak — Right Now
The current harvest season represents optimal eating quality, with hand-picked stems ensuring unmatched sweetness and crunch. While available year-round, this seasonal window is the perfect time to experience Tenderstem® at its best.
Easy to prepare by steaming, roasting, grilling, or stir-frying, Tenderstem® broccoli’s quick cooking time and zero-waste nature make it a go-to for both professional kitchens and home cooks alike.
Celebrating the Season of Green Brilliance
Through the Tender Conversations campaign, South Africa’s top culinary talents continue to celebrate Tenderstem® broccoli as more than just a side dish — it’s a statement ingredient that elevates every plate it touches.
For more information about Tenderstem® broccoli and the Chefs Campaign, visit www.tenderstem.co.za.
Find Tenderstem® broccoli in Woolworths stores nationwide and let it inspire your next culinary creation.
