Chinese Leaf

Description:

Chinese Leaf, also known as Napa cabbage, is a versatile vegetable in Asian cuisine, prized for its tender, mild flavour and crunchy texture. Its pale green, elongated leaves are tightly packed, forming a compact head with crisp, juicy stalks.  Lending itself to a variety of cooking methods, from stir-frying and braising to pickling and fermenting.

Health Benefits From Eating Chinese Leaf :

Being rich in vitamins A, C, and K, essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and bone health. Additionally, it contains folate, potassium, and antioxidants, supporting heart health, regulating blood pressure, and reducing inflammation. Incorporating it into your diet can contribute to overall well-being and promote a balanced, nutritious lifestyle.

How to prepare your Chinese leaf

Start by rinsing the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Trim off the tough base of the stem, then separate the leaves. You can slice or chop the cabbage into strips or chunks depending on your recipe. Chinese leaf can be used raw in salads, stir-fried, or added to soups and stews.

Recipe for Stir-Fried Chinese Leaf with Garlic and Soy Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 medium Chinese leaf (napa cabbage), washed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped Chinese leaf to the pan, stirring constantly, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the leaves start to wilt.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using) to taste.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Serve hot as a side dish or alongside rice for a quick and tasty meal!

Enjoy your simple and flavourful stir-fried Chinese leaf!