Grocery
Fresh Chinese Cabbage
What it is
This is a head of Chinese cabbage, also known as napa cabbage or celery cabbage. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture. The leaves are pale green and tightly packed, forming an elongated head. It is a versatile vegetable commonly used in Asian cuisine and increasingly popular in Western kitchens for its refreshing taste and crunch.
How people cook with it
Chinese cabbage is a staple in many stir-fries and soups. It can also be enjoyed raw in salads.
- Stir-fries
- Soups
- Salads
- Braised dishes
To prepare Chinese cabbage, remove any wilted outer leaves. You can then slice the cabbage thinly or chop it into bite-sized pieces. For stir-fries, add it towards the end of cooking to retain its crispness. In soups, it softens beautifully, absorbing the flavors of the broth. When used raw, it adds a pleasant crunch to salads, often paired with vinaigrette dressings. It can also be braised with other vegetables or meats for a tender side dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to regular green cabbage, Chinese cabbage has a more delicate texture and a milder, sweeter flavor. Its leaves are less dense and have a higher water content, making it cook faster and become tender more easily. It lacks the slight bitterness sometimes found in other cabbage varieties.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a mild, versatile green vegetable will find this cabbage useful.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused portions of Chinese cabbage in the refrigerator. Wrap the cut end tightly in plastic wrap or place the cabbage in a resealable plastic bag. This helps to prevent it from drying out and keeps it fresh for several days.