Understanding the Different Names for Choy Sum
Choy sum, a Cantonese term, is recognized by various names, particularly in Mandarin and English. Recognizing these different names is crucial for identifying and utilizing this versatile vegetable in your cooking.
Yu Choy / Yu Choy Sum
Yu choy (Mandarin: yú cài) means "oil vegetable" and is a widespread alternative to choy sum. The name refers to the rapeseed family. When labeled as yu choy sum, the greens are young and tender. These are prized for a sweeter taste.
Chinese Flowering Cabbage
Chinese flowering cabbage is a common English name. This name highlights the plant's small, edible yellow flowers. The entire plant, including the flowers, leaves, and stems, is edible.
Mandarin and Other Regional Variations
- Cai Xin (菜心): The Mandarin name,
cai xin, means "vegetable heart". This name reflects the tender stalks, which are most favored for cooking. - Tsoi Sum: This is a Cantonese transliteration.
- Sui-choi: Another regional variant.
- Cai Ngot: Vietnamese cuisine refers to it as
cai ngot.
Comparing Choy Sum with Similar Asian Greens
Choy sum is part of the Brassica genus, alongside other Asian greens. These greens have distinct flavors and textures. The following table provides a comparison:
| Feature | Choy Sum | Bok Choy | Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Light green stems, dark green leaves, and yellow flowers. | Thick, white stems with spoon-shaped, dark green leaves. | Thick stems, large, flat green leaves, and white flowers. |
| Flavor Profile | Mild, sweet flavor with a mustard undertone. | Mild with flavors of cabbage and spinach. | Bitter and strong with a broccoli-like flavor. |
| Texture | Tender stems and succulent leaves. | Crisp stems and tender leaves. | Sturdy stems needing longer cooking time. |
| Ideal Cooking Methods | Blanching, steaming, or stir-frying. | Stir-frying, steaming, adding to soups, or used raw. | Braising, stir-frying, or steaming. |
| Common Harvest Stage | Harvested young, often with flowers. | Can be harvested at any stage. | Harvested with stem, leaves, and flower buds. |
The Nutritional Value of Choy Sum
Choy sum is nutritious. It provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and iron. Antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids offer health benefits. Regular consumption supports the immune system and aids digestion.
Cooking with Choy Sum
Choy sum is versatile in the kitchen. Simple preparations best highlight its flavor. Stir-frying with garlic and oyster sauce is common, as are soups. When cooking, add the stems before the leaves.
Stir-frying Choy Sum
- Wash and trim the choy sum.
- Heat oil in a wok and add minced garlic.
- Stir-fry the thicker stems.
- Add the leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
- Season with soy sauce or oyster sauce.
Steamed Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce
- Steam choy sum until tender-crisp.
- Arrange on a plate.
- Heat oil and stir in oyster sauce and sugar.
- Pour the sauce over the greens.
Conclusion
Choy sum, known as yu choy or Chinese flowering cabbage, is a delicious leafy green. The varying names emphasize its popularity in Asian cuisine. By understanding these names and simple cooking methods, you can confidently prepare this versatile vegetable. Its health benefits make it a good choice in the kitchen.
Glossary of Choy Sum Terms
- Choy Sum (菜心): A Cantonese transliteration, meaning "heart of the vegetable".
- Yu Choy (油菜): An alternative name meaning "oil vegetable".
- Cai Xin (菜心): The Mandarin name for choy sum, also meaning "vegetable heart".
- Chinese Flowering Cabbage: A descriptive English name for the vegetable.
- Brassica rapa var. parachinensis: The scientific classification.
Cultural Significance
Choy sum is a symbol of health in Southern China and Southeast Asia. It is a key ingredient in celebratory dishes and daily meals. This cultural significance highlights its role in the culinary traditions.
Outbound Link Suggestion: Explore Chinese cooking techniques at The Woks of Life.
