LETTUCE SWORD CHOI

Choi sword lettuce, native to China, is a variety revered for centuries for its delicate texture and subtle taste. Here is an overview of its history and its diffusion through time:

• Origins and Culture in Asia Antiquity in China: Choi sword lettuce has its roots in Chinese antiquity, where it was cultivated and appreciated for its fine and elegantly cut leaves, evoking the shape of a sword. This poetic name reflects not only the plant’s distinctive appearance, but also its cultural importance in traditional cuisine and horticulture.

Popularity in Southeast Asia: Over the centuries, the Choi sword lettuce has become widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, where it is valued for its freshness, rapid growth, and ability to thrive in varied climates. It is often grown by home gardeners as well as commercial growers to meet local demand for fresh, nutritious vegetables.

• Global Diffusion Presence in Taiwan: Choi sword lettuce is also very popular among the Taiwanese diaspora around the world. It is cultivated and consumed in Taiwanese communities living abroad, thus contributing to its spread beyond Asian borders.
• Introduction to North America and Europe: Over time, lettuce Choi’s sword has found its way into local farmers’ markets throughout Southern California, as well as gardens and cooler climates throughout North America and Europe. Its adaptation to these environments testifies to its robustness and its ability to acclimatize to different types of soil and climatic conditions.

In summary, Choi sword lettuce embodies tradition and innovation in Asian agriculture, while enriching global cuisine with its visual beauty and nutritional value. Its continued presence in international markets and gardens is testament to its enduring appeal and importance in contemporary gastronomy.

• Nutrition Properties and Health Benefits Nutrient Richness: Choi sword lettuce is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate , potassium and calcium. These nutrients are important for the proper functioning of the body, including bone health, vision, immune system and heart health.
• Antioxidant Effect: Like many green vegetables, sword lettuce Choi contains antioxidants such as carotenoids (like beta-carotene) and flavonoids. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and potentially the risk of chronic diseases.
• Digestive Support: Choi sword lettuce is rich in dietary fiber, which can promote healthy digestion by regulating intestinal transit and supporting the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
• Hydration: Like most lettuces, Choi sword lettuce has a high water content, which can help hydrate the body and maintain healthy skin.

Choi sword lettuce, although often eaten raw to preserve its delicate texture and fresh taste, can also be used in various traditional Asian dishes. Here are some traditional ways to cook Choi sword lettuce:

• Choi sword lettuce salad Ingredients: Choi sword lettuce, washed and drained Light Asian dressing (made with soy sauce, sesame oil , rice vinegar, garlic, ginger) Toasted sesame seeds Optional: cucumber slices, grated carrots, chopped green onions Instructions: Preparation of the vinaigrette:

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, l sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic and grated ginger to create a light and aromatic vinaigrette. Prepare the salad: Cut the Choi sword lettuce into manageable pieces. Place it in a large salad bowl and add the other vegetables such as cucumber, carrots and green onions. Assembly: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds to add a crunchy texture. Serving: Serve Choi sword lettuce salad immediately as an accompaniment to Asian dishes or as a light starter.

• Stir-fried Choi Sword Lettuce with Garlic and Ginger Ingredients: Choi sword lettuce, washed and drained Garlic, minced Fresh ginger, grated Vegetable oil (or sesame oil for an Asian flavor) Soy sauce Salt and pepper Instructions: Preparation of ingredients:

Cut the Choi sword lettuce into manageable pieces, separating the leaves. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Cooking the Choi sword lettuce: Add the Choi sword lettuce to the wok. Stir quickly to coat the leaves with oil, garlic and ginger. Add a tablespoon or two of soy sauce to season. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finishing: Sauté the Choi sword lettuce for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the leaves are just tender but still crisp. Remove from heat and serve immediately. This dish can be served as an accompaniment to rice or noodles, or as a light vegetarian dish. These recipes highlight the freshness and delicacy of Choi sword lettuce while respecting its Asian culinary traditions. They are simple to prepare and offer a delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable in your everyday cooking. bon appetit!

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate

• Species: Lactuca sativa; Asteraceae
• Sowing: Early April-May (consecutive sowing every 2-3 weeks until September)
• Seeds: 3 seeds per cell or pot in April. From the end of May, put the seeds directly into the ground
• The pots will be ready to plant 1 month after sowing
• Germination time: 7-12 days
• Soil: Poor, humus, loose and drained
• Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
• Spacing between plants: 30-40 cm
• Height at maturity: 20-30cm
• Maturity: 50-60 days
• Seed per envelope: +/- 100
• Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of their purchase