Chinese celery, also known by various regional names such as kinchay or qin cai, is used in a variety of ways in Asian cuisine due to its delicate flavor and crisp texture. Here are some traditional ways to cook Chinese celery:
- Chinese Celery Stir-Fry
Ingredients :
1 head of Chinese celery, washed and chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (preferably sesame oil)
1 tablespoon of soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Chili flakes for a little heat
Instructions :
Preparation of Chinese Celery:
Cut the Chinese celery into medium-sized pieces. Separate the stems from the leaves if necessary.
Jump :
- Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and fry for about 30 seconds until golden and fragrant.
Cooking Chinese Celery:
Add the Chinese celery pieces to the wok. Stir quickly to coat the celery with the oil and garlic.
Pour the soy sauce over the celery. Stir well to distribute the sauce evenly.
Sautéed:
Sauté the Chinese celery for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the stalks are tender but still crisp. The leaves should be slightly wilted.
Seasoning:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Add chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Service :
Remove from heat and serve hot as a side dish with steamed rice or other Asian main dishes.
- Chinese Celery Salad
Ingredients :
1 head of Chinese celery, washed and cut into thin strips
1 carrot, grated
1 red pepper, diced
For the dressing:
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon of honey
Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions :
Preparation of Chinese Celery:
Cut the Chinese celery into thin strips and place it in a large salad bowl.
Add the grated carrot and diced red pepper.
Preparation of the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Whisk well to combine.
Salad Assembly:
Pour the dressing over the Chinese celery and vegetables. Gently toss to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
Service :
Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve immediately. This light and crunchy salad is perfect as a side dish or as a light main course.
- Chinese Celery Soup
Ingredients :
1 head of Chinese celery, washed and cut into pieces
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions :
Preparation of Chinese Celery:
Cut the Chinese celery into pieces and prepare the garlic and ginger.
Cooking :
In a medium saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Adding the Broth:
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
Cooking Chinese Celery:
Add the Chinese celery stalks to the boiling pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the celery is tender but still crisp.
Seasoning:
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Service :
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot. This light soup is ideal for warming up on cold days or as a starter for an Asian meal.
These simple recipes showcase the delicate flavor and crisp texture of Chinese celery, adding an authentic Asian touch to your meals. Whether stir-fried, in salad, or in soup, Chinese celery offers culinary versatility that is appreciated in many Asian cuisines.
