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Nappa cabbage is a member of the mustard, or Brassicaceae, family. It is a type of Chinese cabbage that is also known by the names of napa, wong nga bok, siu choy, hakusai, pechay, tsina, and pai-tsai. It is a popular, mild-flavored cabbage that is grown in Asia, specifically in China, Japan, and the Philippines. It is also grown in the United States, predominantly in California and Hawaii, where it is grown year round. Nappa cabbage grows in other regions of the United States as well, including Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Ohio. In these areas, however, nappa cabbage is grown seasonally only. In general, nappa cabbage grows best when it is planted in regions where the climate is cool and the average temperature is approximately 65°F.
When you are looking for nappa cabbage, two variety types are available for purchase. These types are the “che-foo”, also called the wong bok variety and the “chihili” variety. While all nappa cabbage is shaped similar to romaine lettuce, the che-foo variety has a more compact and tall head as well as many leaves. Additionally, leaves of this variety are colored pale green. Che-foo varieties may also be found displayed under the following names: Toyko Giant, Tropical Pride, and Wintertime. The chihili variety, on the other hand, has an extremely large, more oblong-shaped head and it has leaves whose colors are dark green. In stores, chihili varieties can be found with names that include Market Pride, Michihili, and Shaho Tsai. Both variety types, however, have leaves that are fairly large in size compared to other lettuce or cabbage types so you should be able to easily identify a nappa cabbage variety type regardless of its name.
You can purchase nappa cabbage year-round at most large supermarket chains and at many specialty fruit and vegetable shops. When purchasing nappa cabbage, make sure that you select only those whose heads are firm and compact and whose leaves do not contain any marks and that are not wilted. Additionally, when purchasing nappa cabbage make sure that the color of the head reflects the variety type that you are buying. For the most part, lighter color heads will have less flavor than those whose leaves are a medium to dark green color. Also note that if the nappa cabbage has been grown at a climate of approximately 80°F or higher, the cabbage may develop a plant disease. Nappa cabbage that is also “old” or not grown in the proper environment will begin to spout flowers from its ends. This type of cabbage is not good to use and should not be bought. Therefore, it is recommended that you always look for fresh cabbage heads and thick, crispy leaves when shopping for nappa cabbage and, if possible, know whom your vegetable supplier is to ensure that a quality stock is present in the store at all times.
Once you have purchased your cabbage, you can safely store it in your refrigerator for up to five days provided that it is stored in your refrigerator. Before using your nappa cabbage, clean it well under water and make sure that you remove any excess water from the leaves prior to using the cabbage. Some common uses for nappa cabbage include adding it raw, to salads and slaws, cooking it using either a boiling or steaming method, and adding it to Asian-themed stir-fries and stews. Because nappa cabbage has a mild taste, it is also popular as a picked relish, and may be found commercially in this form. In general, nappa cabbage can be used in any recipes where cabbage is required as an ingredient.
Nappa cabbage has many diverse uses, making it popular among both gourmet and health-conscious chefs, not only for taste but also nutritional benefits. Cabbage, in general, has been thought to work as an aid in the prevention of cancer and nappa cabbage is no exception to this conjecture. Additionally, for those on a diet, nappa cabbage contains no fat or cholesterol and is low in calories. It also contains very little sodium yet it retains a high amount of vitamin C.
Nappa cabbage is also a good alternative to use in health-oriented recipes that call for a unique, almost sweet flavored cabbage as well as a cabbage that can add a courser texture to the dish. Nappa cabbage is also tasty when served braised and can easily be used as a side dish to meals such as roasts, chicken, and pasta. You will also find that once nappa cabbage has been cooked, it can be stored in your refrigerator for a few days and then re-heated, as necessary, to serve with other foods or to eat as is.
The benefits to using nappa cabbage in your daily diet are great. Therefore, when you next go to purchase lettuce or a cabbage variety at your local store, pickup some nappa cabbage. It will provide a tasty and nutritious addition to many common entrees and side dishes.
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