Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) by: Everyone 0 Comments Posted:2/15/2021Updated:2/12/2021 Chinese Broccoli (芥兰, gai lan in Cantonese or jiè lán in Mandarin) is a leafy green vegetable you can use in a diverse range of dishes.Although they come from the same plant family, it is quite different from the regular broccoli florets you’re already familiar with, which is known as xī lán huā, 西兰花).What is Chinese Broccoli?  Chinese broccoli is a leafy green-blue plant that has three primary parts––the leafy ends, the crunchy stalk, sometimes small, flowery buds.

Its structure is similar to regular broccoli, though the leaves and buds are much smaller.Depending on when the vegetables were harvested, you may or may not see these buds on the particular specimens you buy.This vegetable has thick, dark green leaves that are soft and pliable like spinach, with a dull sheen to them.

Their stems are firm, similar to broccoli or asparagus, and they taste somewhat similar to broccoli.After cooking, they take on a sweeter taste and lighten to a bright green color.The tender leaves are quite delicious, as well as rich in calcium, iron, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.  Asian supermarkets have now begun to stock baby Chinese broccoli, also called Chinese broccoli tips, pictured below: The leaves and stems are more tender, and you’ll get less stem per stalk.

Choosing mature vs.young vegetables is ultimately a personal preference.  Is

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