Can you eat broccoli stalks?

Q: We eat a lot of broccoli and I usually throw out the stalk. Should I do this or can you eat broccoli stalks?

Jo, via email

A: You definitely can, and should! Broccoli stems are full of fibre and nutrients. I usually take off the outer ‘rind’ as this can be a bit stringy, then slice the stalk thinly and add it to my dishes just like that. Broccoli stalk is great in stir-fries, curries, pasta – wherever you use the rest of your broccoli. I make a quick broccoli soup using the florets and stalk – just cook it all in a little diluted chicken stock until tender, purée with a stick blender or in a food processor then add salt, pepper and a sprinkling of blue cheese.