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Seed | Choi Sword Leaf Lettuce
  • Seed | Choi Sword Leaf Lettuce
Seed | Choi Sword Leaf Lettuce

Seed | Choi Sword Leaf Lettuce

$3.99 CAD
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Choi Sword Leaf Lettuce Seed, a distinctive Asian variety with elongated, pointed leaves. Offers a crisp texture and a slightly tangy flavor. Ideal for cool-climate growing, resists bolting well. Excellent for salads, stir-fries, and garnishes.
A LITTLE HISTORY

Choi sword lettuce, native to China, is a variety revered for centuries for its delicate texture and subtle flavor. Here's a look at its history and spread over time:

  • Origins and Culture in Asia
    Antiquity in China: Choi sword lettuce has its roots in ancient China, where it was cultivated and prized for its thin, elegantly cut leaves, reminiscent of a sword. This poetic name reflects not only the plant's distinctive appearance but also its cultural significance in traditional cuisine and horticulture.

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

  • Worldwide Diffusion
    Presence in Taiwan: Choi sword lettuce is also very popular among the Taiwanese diaspora around the world. It is grown and consumed in Taiwanese communities living abroad, contributing to its spread beyond Asian borders.
  • Introduction to North America and Europe: Over time, Choi sword lettuce found its way into local farmers' markets in Southern California, as well as gardens and cooler climates throughout North America and Europe. Its adaptation to these environments is a testament to its hardiness and ability to acclimate to different soil types 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 a testament to its enduring appeal and importance in contemporary gastronomy.
PROPERTIES

Choi sword lettuce, like other lettuce varieties, is primarily valued for its nutritional qualities rather than specific medicinal properties, which are less well-documented. However, it offers several health benefits due to its nutritional composition.

  • Nutritional Properties and Health Benefits
    Nutrient Rich: 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 proper body function, including bone health, vision, immune system, and heart health.
  • Antioxidant Effect: Like many green vegetables, Choi sword lettuce 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 bowel movements 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.
HOW TO COOK?

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, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a light and aromatic dressing.
Preparation of 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 dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds to add a crunchy texture.
Service :

Serve Choi Sword Lettuce Salad immediately as a side dish with Asian dishes or as a light appetizer.

  • Sautéed 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.
Jump :

Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
Cooking Choi Sword Lettuce:

Add the Choi sword lettuce to the wok. Stir quickly to coat the leaves with the oil, garlic, and ginger.
Add a tablespoon or two of soy sauce for seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finishing :

Stir-fry 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 a side dish with rice or noodles, or as a light vegetarian dish.
These recipes showcase 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!
HOW TO GROW?

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-rich, 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
  • Seeds per envelope: +/- 100
  • Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.

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