List of Chinese Vegetables

English NameChinese Name
Azuki BeanHong dow
AmaranthCien choy
Aparagus PeaBin dow
Bitter MelonKoo gwa
Broccoli, ChineseGai Ian
BurdockNgan pong
Celery Cabbage, ChinesePai tsai
Chives, Chinese, GarlicGow choy
Cucumbers, ChineseTseng gwa
Eggplant, ChineseAi gwa
Fava BeansFu dow
Flowering CabbgeHwa choy
Fuzzy GourdJiet gwa
Garland ChrysanthemumTong how tsai
Giant GarlicSuan
GingerGiang
Hot PeppersLa chiao
Mung BeansNga choy
Mustard, ChineseGai choy
Okra, Chinese (Luffa)Shuh gwa
Parsley, ChineseYjen tsai
Pickling MelonChung choy
Pumpkins, ChineseNang gwa
Radish, ChineseLuo buo
SesameChih ma
Snow Peas Hon Ian dow
White VegetablesBok choy
Green VegetablesShanghai bok choy
Dwarf egetablesDwarf bok choy
Taiwanese spinachTaiwan bo cai
Napa cabbageDa bai cai
Yam leaves DÌ gua miao
WatercressXi yangcai

Chinese cuisine is renowned for its diverse range of vegetables, which are integral to traditional dishes. These vegetables not only provide unique flavors and textures but also lend authenticity to Chinese recipes. This comprehensive list explores some of the most popular Chinese vegetables, delving into their taste, preparation, and culinary uses.

From leafy greens to root vegetables and staple cabbage varieties to unique greens, Chinese cuisine presents a vast array of options. Whether you are a fan of stir-fried dishes, soups, or salads, Chinese vegetables offer a multitude of choices to satisfy your culinary preferences. In this article, we will delve into the characteristics and cooking techniques of some of the widely consumed Chinese vegetables.

Stay tuned as we explore the leafy greens like bok choy, choy sum, and Chinese water spinach; the versatile root vegetables such as Chinese broccoli and lotus root; the staple cabbage varieties including Napa cabbage and Michihili cabbage; the unique greens like chrysanthemum leaves and mung bean sprouts; and finally, the pungent mustard greens, green mustard, and red mustard.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or simply curious about the flavors of Chinese cuisine, this guide will open up a world of possibilities with delightful vegetables that are an essential part of Chinese culinary traditions.

Leafy Greens: Bok Choy, Choy Sum, and Chinese Water Spinach

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, leafy greens play a prominent role in creating delicious and nutritious dishes. Three popular Chinese leafy vegetables are bok choy, choy sum, and Chinese water spinach. These leafy greens are not only flavorful but also offer a range of health benefits.

Bok Choy: Also known as white vegetable, bok choy is available in various sizes and varieties. Both the crunchy stalks and tender leaves of bok choy are used in Chinese cooking. It has a mild taste with hints of sweetness, making it versatile for different culinary applications. Bok choy can be stir-fried, steamed, added to soups, or used in stir-fries and salads.

Choy Sum: Known as yu choy, choy sum is another leafy green commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It has a delicate texture and a sweet taste that pairs well with various flavors. Choy sum is often used in salads, stir-fries, and soups. Its versatility allows it to be cooked quickly or enjoyed raw in salads.

Chinese Water Spinach: Also referred to as ong choy, Chinese water spinach is a water-grown vegetable known for its crunchy texture and hollow stems. It has a slightly bitter taste that complements well with garlic and fermented bean curd. Chinese water spinach is usually sautéed, stir-fried, or blanched before adding to dishes.

These Chinese leafy vegetables are not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also add vibrant colors and unique flavors to a variety of Chinese dishes. Proper preparation involves thorough washing and trimming before cooking to remove any impurities.

Taste and Culinary Uses:

The table below provides a comparison of the taste and culinary uses of bok choy, choy sum, and Chinese water spinach:

Leafy GreenTasteCulinary Uses
Bok ChoyMild with a hint of sweetnessStir-fries, soups, salads
Choy SumSweetSalads, stir-fries, soups
Chinese Water SpinachSlightly bitterSautéed, stir-fried, blanched

As seen in the table, bok choy, choy sum, and Chinese water spinach each have their unique taste profiles and can be used in various Chinese recipes. Whether it’s steamed, stir-fried, or added to soups, these leafy greens contribute to the overall flavor and nutritional value of traditional Chinese dishes.

Root Vegetables: Chinese Broccoli and Lotus Root

In Chinese cuisine, root vegetables play a significant role in adding depth and flavor to dishes. Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan, is a popular leafy green that belongs to the cabbage family. It has thick stalks, similar to regular broccoli, but with a slightly bitter taste.

When preparing Chinese broccoli, it is common to blanch or steam it until tender. This cooking method helps to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Chinese broccoli is often served with oyster sauce, which adds a savory and umami flavor to complement its bitterness.

Lotus root is another common root vegetable in Chinese cooking. It has a mild and fresh flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Known for its distinct appearance, lotus root is characterized by its unique pattern of holes and crunchy texture.

In Chinese cuisine, lotus root is frequently sliced and used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. Its crispness adds texture to the dish while absorbing the flavors of other ingredients. Whether it’s a hearty stir-fry or a light soup, lotus root brings a refreshing element to every bite.

Both Chinese broccoli and lotus root are easily accessible at Asian markets and are valuable additions to any kitchen. To ensure the best taste and quality, it is important to properly trim and wash these root vegetables before cooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Chinese broccoli and lotus root are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Chinese broccoli is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber. It is also rich in antioxidants that help protect the body against free radicals.

Lotus root is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight. It contains a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining a balanced diet.

Cooking Tips

When preparing Chinese broccoli and lotus root, consider these cooking tips to enhance their flavors:

  • Trim any damaged or browned parts of the vegetables before cooking.
  • Thoroughly wash Chinese broccoli to remove any dirt or impurities.
  • Blanch or steam Chinese broccoli until it turns vibrant green, then plunge it into ice water to maintain its color and crispness.
  • Slice lotus root uniformly to ensure even cooking.
  • Add Chinese broccoli towards the end of stir-frying to preserve its crispness.
  • Pair lotus root with other vegetables and proteins in stir-fries or soups for a well-rounded dish.

Quick Recipe

For a simple and delicious dish featuring Chinese broccoli, try this recipe:

  1. Blanch Chinese broccoli until crisp-tender, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a separate pan, heat oyster sauce with a little oil and minced garlic.
  3. Add the blanched Chinese broccoli to the pan and toss until well-coated in the sauce.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of this classic Chinese vegetable dish.

Comparison of Chinese Broccoli and Lotus Root

Chinese BroccoliLotus Root
Thick stalksDistinct appearance with holes
Slightly bitter tasteMild and fresh flavor
Often blanched or steamedSliced and used in stir-fries, soups, and salads
Rich in vitamins A, C, and KLow in calories and fat
Complements well with oyster sauceBrings a refreshing element to dishes

Staple Cabbage Varieties: Napa Cabbage and Michihili Cabbage

Napa cabbage and Michihili cabbage are two common Chinese vegetables that add their distinct flavors and textures to Chinese cuisine. Let’s take a closer look at these staple cabbage varieties and explore their versatility in different dishes.

Napa Cabbage

Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a popular vegetable in Chinese cooking. It is characterized by its oblong shape, light green color, and delicate, tender leaves. Napa cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.

Napa cabbage is often used in stir-fries, soups, and pickled dishes like kimchi. Its crunchy texture and mild taste make it a great addition to hot pot dishes as well. This cabbage variety is packed with nutrients such as vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.

Michihili Cabbage

Michihili cabbage, sometimes referred to as Napa Michihili cabbage or Chinese Michihili cabbage, is another popular vegetable in Chinese cuisine. It is longer and narrower than Napa cabbage, with pale green leaves and a slightly stronger flavor.

Michihili cabbage can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be eaten raw in salads, blanched or steamed, or used as an ingredient in stir-fries and soups. Its crisp texture and distinct taste add depth to dishes, and it is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Both Napa cabbage and Michihili cabbage are widely available throughout the year in Asian markets and grocery stores. They are versatile vegetables that can be incorporated into different recipes to enhance flavor and provide nutritional benefits.

To provide a visual representation of the nutritional content of Napa cabbage and Michihili cabbage, below is a table showcasing their nutritional values per 100 grams:

Cabbage VarietyCaloriesCarbohydrates (g)Protein (g)Fat (g)Fiber (g)Vitamin C (mg)Vitamin K (mcg)
Napa Cabbage122.21.10.11.21664
Michihili Cabbage162.51.50.42.32345

As the table demonstrates, both Napa cabbage and Michihili cabbage offer low calories, carbohydrates, and fat content while providing essential nutrients like vitamins C and K. These two cabbage varieties can be easily incorporated into a well-balanced diet.

In the next section, we will explore unique Chinese greens such as chrysanthemum leaves and mung bean sprouts, which contribute to the diverse flavor profiles of Chinese cuisine.

Unique Greens: Chrysanthemum Leaves and Mung Bean Sprouts

Chrysanthemum leaves, also known as tong ho, are a traditional Chinese vegetable with a unique mix of tangy, bitter, and herbal flavors. These vibrant greens add depth and complexity to Chinese dishes, elevating their taste profiles. Chrysanthemum leaves are often lightly steamed or blanched to soften their texture while retaining their freshness and crispness. They are commonly used in salads or added to soups, imparting a refreshing and aromatic note to the overall dish.

Mung bean sprouts, on the other hand, are microgreens packed with nutritional benefits. These sprouts are derived from mung beans and are commonly used in various Asian cuisines, including Chinese cuisine. Mung bean sprouts are known for their crunchy texture and delicate flavor. They are frequently used in stir-fries, salads, and traditional dishes like spring rolls and curries. These sprouts are rich in fiber and plant protein, making them a nutritious addition to any Chinese meal.

Chrysanthemum leaves and mung bean sprouts are prime examples of traditional Chinese vegetables that bring both taste and health benefits to the table. Incorporating these unique greens into your Chinese cooking allows you to explore the diverse flavors and textures that the cuisine has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of tangy and bitter notes or seeking a nutrient-rich ingredient, chrysanthemum leaves and mung bean sprouts are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Mustard Greens: Green Mustard and Red Mustard

Mustard greens, including green mustard and red mustard, are among the most famous Chinese vegetables due to their distinctively sharp and pungent flavor. These leafy greens add a unique taste to Chinese dishes and are widely used in traditional cooking.

Green mustard, with its frilly texture, is a versatile ingredient that can be stir-fried or added to soups. Its vibrant green leaves bring freshness and a slightly peppery taste to the dish. Red mustard, on the other hand, is known for its striking red color and strong flavor. It is commonly used in salads and pickled dishes for an extra kick of taste.

Both green mustard and red mustard are readily available in most Asian markets. It is crucial to use proper cooking techniques, such as blanching or stir-frying, to balance the strong flavor of these greens without overpowering the dish. While they provide a delightful taste experience, mustard greens also offer numerous nutritional benefits that make them a valuable addition to a healthy Chinese cuisine.

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