Jade
Jade Shanghai Bok Choy
What it is
Jade Shanghai Bok Choy is a type of Chinese cabbage known for its tender, crisp stalks and mild, slightly sweet leaves. It has a more compact shape than other bok choy varieties, with thicker, spoon-shaped leaves and shorter, sturdier stems. This vegetable is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, prized for its delicate flavor and satisfying crunch. It is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many ways, offering a fresh taste to various dishes.
How people cook with it
Shanghai bok choy is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from simple stir-fries to hearty soups.
- Quick stir-fries
- Steamed as a side dish
- Added to noodle soups
- Braised with aromatics
To prepare Shanghai bok choy, wash it thoroughly under cold water, paying attention to the base where dirt can accumulate. You can chop it into bite-sized pieces, separating the white stems from the green leaves. The stems will take slightly longer to cook than the leaves. Stir-fry the stems first for a minute or two before adding the leaves. It can also be steamed until tender-crisp, added to simmering broths for soups, or braised with garlic and ginger for a flavorful side dish. Its mild flavor complements many other ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Shanghai bok choy differs from larger, more common bok choy varieties by its more compact size and thicker, sturdier stems. Its leaves are also generally more tender and have a sweeter flavor profile. This makes it ideal for quick cooking methods where you want the vegetable to retain some crispness.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add fresh, mild greens to their meals will find this vegetable useful.
How to keep the rest
To store fresh Shanghai bok choy, wrap the unwashed stalks loosely in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. It is best used within a few days of purchase to maintain its crispness and fresh flavor.