Choy sum, a leafy green vegetable popular in Asian cuisine, is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile and easy to cook. If you’ve ever wondered, how do you cook choy sum? – this article will walk you through simple, tasty methods that bring out its fresh flavor and vibrant texture. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to perfect your technique, this guide has you covered.
What Is Choy Sum?
Choy sum (also spelled choi sum) is a member of the Chinese cabbage family. It features tender stems, leafy tops, and sometimes small yellow blossoms. Known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor, choy sum is a fantastic vegetable to stir-fry, steam, or blanch. It cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with garlic, soy sauce, and other Asian seasonings.
Preparing Choy Sum for Cooking
Before cooking, preparation is key:
– Trim the root ends and separate the thicker stems from the leafy parts.
– Wash thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and possible pesticide residues.
– If the stalks are mature and fibrous, you can peel the outer layer for a tender bite.
– Cut into bite-sized pieces if preferred, or leave whole for steaming.
How to Cook Choy Sum: Step-by-Step Stir-Fry Method
Stir-frying is the most popular way to cook choy sum because it’s fast and locks in flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
– 1 lb choy sum
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4-6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
– 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or oyster sauce
– Optional: ginger, red pepper flakes, sesame oil
Instructions
- Blanch the Choy Sum (Optional but Recommended):
Boil a pot of water. Add the thicker stems first and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender. Then add the leafy parts and cook for another 45-60 seconds until bright green. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Dry thoroughly with a salad spinner or towel.
- Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic:
In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds.
- Add Choy Sum and Season:
Toss in the blanched choy sum. Sprinkle with salt and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes. Add soy sauce or oyster sauce, and if you like, a splash of rice wine or a pinch of sugar to enhance the flavor. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the greens.
- Finish with Optional Flavors:
Add a dash of white pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat. Drizzle sesame oil for aroma. Toss everything together and cook for another minute.
- Serve Immediately:
Plate your stir-fried choy sum and enjoy it as a side dish with rice and your favorite protein.
Alternative Ways to Cook Choy Sum
Steamed Choy Sum with Garlic Sauce
Steaming preserves the vegetable’s natural sweetness and nutrients.
– Wash and trim choy sum.
– Steam for about 2 minutes until tender but crisp.
– Meanwhile, sauté garlic in oil, add oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and a little water to make a sauce.
– Pour the hot garlic sauce over the steamed choy sum and serve.
Roasted Choy Sum Pesto Pasta
For a creative twist, roast choy sum with olive oil and blend it into a pesto sauce to toss with pasta. This method adds a smoky flavor and is perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Tips for Perfect Choy Sum Every Time
– Choose fresh choy sum with bright green leaves and crisp stalks. Avoid those with dry or cracked root ends.
– Blanching before stir-frying helps achieve even cooking and silky texture.
– Avoid adding salt too early during stir-frying to prevent the vegetable from releasing too much water and becoming soggy.
– Use high heat for quick cooking and to keep the choy sum vibrant and crunchy.
– Experiment with garlic, ginger, and chili flakes for added depth of flavor.
Choy sum is a quick-cooking, nutritious vegetable that can be easily transformed into a delicious side dish. Whether you prefer stir-frying, steaming, or even roasting, the key is to keep the cooking time short to preserve its bright color and tender crunch. With simple ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of oil, you can enjoy this versatile green in no time.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with choy sum!