Chinese Cabbage: A Beginner’s Guide to This Versatile Veggie

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated August 5, 2022

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa, subspecies pekinensis and chinensis) can refer to two distinct varieties of Chinese leaf vegetables often used in Chinese cuisine: Pekinensis (napa cabbage) and Chinensis (bok choy).

These vegetables are both variant cultivars or subspecies of the turnip and belong to the same genus as such Western staples as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Both have many variations in name, spelling, and scientific classification, especially the bok choy (B. rapa chinensis) variety.

It’s also known as “napa cabbage”. Chinese cabbage is a leafy vegetable in the cabbage family. It’s a non-head cabbage grown for its edible leaves and stalks. It’s a cool-season crop grown worldwide as a leafy vegetable for its crisp texture and slightly sweet flavor.

Let’s look at everything you need to know about Chinese cabbage, from its history to its uses and health benefits.

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Discovering the Versatility of Chinese Cabbage

Chinese cabbage is a type of leafy vegetable that is widely used in Asian cuisine. It is also known as Napa cabbage, celery cabbage, or Chinese leaf. This vegetable is a member of the Brassica family, which includes other popular vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.

Types of Chinese Cabbage

Chinese cabbage comes in two main varieties: white and red. The white variety is the most common and is round and tight, while the red variety is more elongated and has a looser head. Both varieties have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture.

Preparing Chinese Cabbage

Chinese cabbage is a fast and easy vegetable to prepare. Here are some quick tips to help you get started:

• Picking: Look for Chinese cabbage that is fresh and firm with no signs of wilting or yellowing leaves.
• Cutting: Cut off the bottom of the cabbage and remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves. Rinse the cabbage under cold water and pat dry.
• Stages: Chinese cabbage can be eaten raw or cooked. When raw, it can be sliced thinly and added to salads or used as a wrap for fillings. When cooked, it can be stir-fried, sautéed, or added to soups and stews.
• Adding: Chinese cabbage is a great budget-friendly produce that can be used as a main dish or as a side dish. It can also be used as a substitute for green cabbage in recipes.
• Sauce: Chinese cabbage pairs well with a variety of sauces, including soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.

Famous Chinese Cabbage Dishes

Chinese cabbage is a staple in many Asian dishes, including:

• Stir-fried Chinese cabbage with pork
• Chinese cabbage soup
• Chinese cabbage kimchi
• Chinese cabbage dumplings

What’s the Flavor of Chinese Cabbage?

Chinese cabbage has a subtle flavor that pairs well with a variety of other flavors. Some of the flavors that complement Chinese cabbage include:

• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Chili peppers
• Sesame oil

Discover the Wide Range of Chinese Cabbage Varieties

Chinese cabbage, also known as Napa cabbage, is a versatile vegetable that comes in many different varieties. These varieties differ in shape, size, color, and taste, making them perfect for a wide range of cooking and food preparation. In this guide, we will explore the different types of Chinese cabbage and provide you with all the information you need to choose the right variety for your budget and taste.

The Most Popular Chinese Cabbage Varieties

Here are some of the most popular Chinese cabbage varieties you can find in the market:

• Napa cabbage: This is the most common type of Chinese cabbage. It has a long, cylindrical shape with thick, crunchy stalks and deep green leaves. Napa cabbage is perfect for stir-fries, soups, and salads.
• Bok choy: This variety has a narrow, elongated head with thick, white stalks and dark green leaves. It is commonly used in Chinese cuisine and is perfect for stir-fries, soups, and stews.
• Pak choy: This variety is similar to bok choy but has a smaller head and thinner stalks. It is perfect for stir-fries and salads.
• Choy sum: This variety is a member of the celery family and has long, narrow stalks with small, tender leaves. It is perfect for stir-fries and soups.

Chinese Cabbage Varieties Compared to Other Cabbages

Chinese cabbage is often compared to other cabbages, such as green cabbage and Japanese cabbage. Here are some differences between Chinese cabbage and other cabbages:

• Chinese cabbage has a higher water content than green cabbage, making it more tender and less crunchy.
• Japanese cabbage, also known as “hakusai,” is a type of Chinese cabbage that has a more compact head and resembles a miniature romaine lettuce.
• Chinese cabbage adds a unique flavor and texture to dishes compared to other cabbages.

Get Creative in the Kitchen: Cooking with Chinese Cabbage

• Heat a wok or large pot over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
• Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
• Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted.
• Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and any other desired seasonings.
• Continue stirring for another minute or until the cabbage is cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
• Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Steamed Recipe

• Select a head of Chinese cabbage and cut it into small wedges.
• Place the wedges in a steamer basket and steam for 5-7 minutes until tender.
• In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
• Remove the cabbage from the steamer and place it on a serving dish.
• Pour the sauce over the cabbage and enjoy as a side dish or with pasta.

Soup Recipe

• Heat a pot over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
• Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
• Add the shredded cabbage and stir for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted.
• Add 4 cups of water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the cabbage and place it in a serving bowl.
• Add any desired additional vegetables or fish to the pot and let cook for 1 minute.
• Uncover and let simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.
• Serve hot with the cabbage on top.

Vitamin-Packed Recipe

• Prep the cabbage as desired and place it in a large bowl.
• Add 1 tablespoon of oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and any desired seasonings.
• Toss the cabbage until evenly coated.
• Spread the cabbage on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until slightly browned and crispy.
• Enjoy as a healthy snack or as a side dish.

Where Can You Get Your Hands on Chinese Cabbage?

One of the easiest places to find Chinese cabbage is at your local grocery store. Most major chains carry it in the produce section, and you can usually find it near other leafy greens like kale and collard greens. If you’re not sure where to look, just ask someone who works there. They should be able to point you in the right direction.

Asian Markets

If you’re looking for a wider variety of Chinese cabbage, you might want to check out an Asian market. These stores often carry several different types of Chinese cabbage, including Napa cabbage and bok choy. Some popular Asian markets in the US include H Mart, 99 Ranch Market, and Seafood City.

Farmers Markets

If you prefer to buy your produce locally, you might want to check out your local farmers market. While Chinese cabbage might not be as common as other vegetables, you might be able to find it at a stand that specializes in Asian produce. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers and getting the freshest produce possible.

Online

If you can’t find Chinese cabbage at your local grocery store or Asian market, you can always try buying it online. Many online retailers sell fresh produce, including Chinese cabbage. Just be sure to check the shipping costs and delivery times before you place your order.

Grow Your Own

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try growing your own Chinese cabbage. It’s a relatively easy vegetable to grow, and you can find seeds at most garden centers or online. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you grew it yourself.

Keeping Your Chinese Cabbage Fresh: Storage Tips

When it comes to storing Chinese cabbage, it’s important to understand that the way you store it can affect its storability and quality. Here are some basic things to keep in mind:

• Chinese cabbage can be stored for an extended period if stored properly.
• Freezing Chinese cabbage is not recommended as it can damage the leaves and cause loss of texture and flavor.
• Wilted or damaged leaves should be removed before storing to prevent bacterial or fungal growth.
• Chinese cabbage should not be stored outside as it can wilt quickly.

Common Storage Problems and How to Avoid Them

Chinese cabbage can be prone to several storage problems, such as downy and powdery mildew, bacterial soft rot, and rhizoctonia. Here are some tips to avoid these problems:

• Keep the temperature and relative humidity (RH) low and stable to avoid physiological disorders and bacterial growth.
• Avoid chilling Chinese cabbage as it can develop darkened and translucent areas that deteriorate rapidly.
• Store Chinese cabbage upside down to prevent moisture from accumulating in the stem end.
• Check the Chinese cabbage regularly for signs of damage, such as black or grey mold, and remove any affected leaves immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.

Chinese Cabbage vs Green Cabbage: What’s the Difference?

Chinese cabbage, also known as Napa cabbage, is a delicate, oblong-shaped vegetable with light green leaves that are tightly wrapped around each other. It looks more like lettuce than a typical cabbage. On the other hand, green cabbage is a member of the species Brassica oleracea and has a round head with frilly, compacted leaves. It has a firmer texture than Chinese cabbage and is commonly used in coleslaw and sauerkraut.

Taste and Flavor

Chinese cabbage has a mild, sweet flavor and a tender texture, making it perfect for stir-frying and steaming. It is also high in vitamin C and fiber, making it a great nutritional value. Green cabbage, on the other hand, has a slightly bitter taste and a firmer texture, which makes it ideal for wraps and soups.

Cooking and Preparation

Chinese cabbage is typically used in Asian cuisine and is commonly found in Japanese and Chinese dishes. It can be steamed, stir-fried, or used in soups and stews. Green cabbage, on the other hand, is a popular vegetable in many different cuisines and can be used in a variety of ways, such as sautéed, boiled, or roasted.

Special Varieties

While there are thousands of different varieties of cabbage, Chinese cabbage and green cabbage are the most commonly found in grocery stores. However, there are some special varieties of Chinese cabbage worth noting, such as the Michihli variety, which maintains its firm texture even when cooked, and the Wong Bok variety, which is elongated and has a slightly sweeter flavor than regular Napa cabbage.

The Key Differences

The key differences between Chinese cabbage and green cabbage are:

• Appearance and texture: Chinese cabbage is delicate, oblong-shaped, and has light green leaves that are tightly wrapped around each other, while green cabbage has a round head with frilly, compacted leaves and a firmer texture.
• Taste and flavor: Chinese cabbage has a mild, sweet flavor and a tender texture, while green cabbage has a slightly bitter taste and a firmer texture.
• Cooking and preparation: Chinese cabbage is typically used in Asian cuisine and can be steamed, stir-fried, or used in soups and stews, while green cabbage is a popular vegetable in many different cuisines and can be used in a variety of ways.
• Special varieties: Chinese cabbage has some special varieties worth noting, such as the Michihli and Wong Bok varieties.

In conclusion, while Chinese cabbage and green cabbage may look similar at first glance, they are actually quite different in terms of taste, texture, and usage. Whether you’re making pork dumplings or coleslaw, knowing the differences between these two vegetables can make all the difference in the final dish.

Conclusion

Chinese cabbage is a type of leafy vegetable that comes in many different varieties. Chinese cabbage is a member of the brassica family, and includes popular vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Chinese cabbage is a great addition to a healthy diet because it’s budget-friendly and adds a subtle flavor to dishes. So, why not add some Chinese cabbage to your next meal?

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.