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Seed | Chinese Big Leaf Mustard
  • Seed | Chinese Big Leaf Mustard
Seed | Chinese Big Leaf Mustard

Seed | Chinese Big Leaf Mustard

$3.99 CAD
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An Asian cultivar prized for its broad green leaves with a distinctively pungent flavor. This easy-to-grow Chinese mustard offers a quick and abundant harvest.
A LITTLE HISTORY

Chinese bigleaf mustard is a traditional variety grown primarily in China, where it is a staple crop in Asian cuisines. It belongs to the Brassica juncea family, which also includes other mustard varieties used worldwide.

  • Origin and development
    Cultivated for centuries in China, this mustard variety was selected for its large, flat leaves, ideal for eating as a green vegetable. It is often used in stir-fries, soups, or salads, where its texture and unique flavor add a savory touch. Young leaves are particularly prized for their mildness and tenderness, while more mature leaves can have a more pungent taste.
  • Features
    Chinese bigleaf mustard is distinguished by its large size, broad, flat leaves, and ability to adapt to different climates, making it a popular crop in both rural areas and urban gardens. In China, it is cultivated in many regions, where it plays an important role in the daily diet. It can also be grown in other parts of the world that seek to introduce traditional Asian varieties.
  • Use and culinary importance
    Chinese mustard is used in a variety of ways in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese cuisine, where it is prized for its ability to complement savory or spicy dishes. In addition to its culinary value, this plant is also prized for its nutritional qualities: rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it provides numerous health benefits.
  • Diffusion and popularity
    Over the years, Chinese Big Leaf Mustard has been cultivated beyond the borders of China, finding its way into gardens and markets in other countries, even Canada.
PROPERTIES

Chinese mustard (or Brassica juncea) has several medicinal properties that are commonly used in traditional Asian medicine, particularly Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. Here is an overview of the main health benefits:

  • 1. Rich in antioxidants
    Chinese bigleaf mustard leaves are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and flavonoids, which help protect the body from free radicals. This can reduce oxidative stress and prevent premature cell damage, thus contributing to overall health and the prevention of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and some cancers.
  • 2. Anti-inflammatory properties
    Mustard greens, like the seeds, possess anti-inflammatory properties. They are used to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help treat conditions like arthritis and muscle pain. The phytochemicals present in the plant can inhibit the production of certain inflammatory molecules in the body.
  • 3. Improved digestion
    Chinese bigleaf mustard is often used for its digestive properties. It stimulates the production of gastric juices and helps improve digestion. Mustard leaves are sometimes used to relieve digestive problems such as bloating and constipation. Consuming this plant also promotes the elimination of toxins.
  • 4. Regulation of metabolism and blood sugar
    Mustard greens are known for their ability to regulate metabolism and lower blood sugar levels. As a source of fiber, they can help improve blood sugar control, which is beneficial for people with diabetes or those looking to prevent the condition.
  • 5. Detoxifying properties
    Chinese big leaf mustard is used in traditional medicine for its detoxifying properties. It can help eliminate toxins and impurities from the body. Its fiber and antioxidants promote the elimination of waste from the digestive system and support liver function.
  • 6. Strengthening the immune system
    Thanks to its high vitamin content, especially vitamin C, this mustard variety helps strengthen the immune system. It stimulates the production of white blood cells and helps the body better fight infections and diseases.
  • 7. Benefits for the skin
    The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Chinese big leaf mustard make it an excellent natural remedy for improving skin health. It is sometimes used in traditional remedies to treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and other skin irritations. Additionally, it can help soothe irritations and maintain skin elasticity.
  • 8. Cardioprotective properties
    Some studies suggest that brown mustard (Brassica juncea) may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. The antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids in the plant may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and prevent heart disease.
HOW TO COOK?

Chinese mustard (or Brassica juncea) is a popular vegetable in traditional Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese cuisine, but also in other Asian cuisines such as Korean and Japanese. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, often in stir-fries, soups, or stewed vegetable dishes. Here are some traditional preparation methods:

  • 1. Stir-fry
    Stir-frying is one of the most popular ways to cook Chinese mustard. It's a quick method that retains the leaves' delicate texture and flavor while making them tender.

Main ingredients:

Chinese large leaf mustard leaves
Chopped garlic (optional)
Soy sauce
Sesame oil or vegetable oil
Grated ginger (optional)
Chili pepper (optional)
Preparation :

Wash the mustard leaves well, remove the thick stems and cut them into medium-sized pieces.
Heat a little oil in a wok or frying pan.
Add the garlic (and ginger if desired) and stir-fry until fragrant.
Add the mustard greens and stir-fry quickly for 2 to 3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
Season with soy sauce, sesame oil and a little salt or sugar if desired.
Serve immediately, usually with rice.

  • 2. Chinese mustard soup
    Vegetable soups are common in Chinese cuisine, and Chinese mustard is a great addition to these dishes. It can be cooked in a light soup made with chicken or vegetable broth.

Main ingredients:

Chinese large leaf mustard leaves
Chicken broth or vegetable broth
Garlic, ginger (optional)
Soy sauce
Shrimp paste or fish sauce (optional)
Preparation :

Wash the leaves well and cut them into pieces.
Heat the broth in a large saucepan.
Add fresh garlic and ginger for extra flavor, and simmer for a few minutes.
Add the mustard greens to the soup and cook until tender.
Season with soy sauce, shrimp paste or fish sauce, and a little salt if necessary.
Serve hot, as a side dish or as a main course with rice.

  • 3. Stewed dishes
    Stewed dishes made with Chinese large leaf mustard are also common, where the mustard is cooked for a long time with meats such as pork, chicken or even beef.

Main ingredients:

Chinese large leaf mustard leaves
Pork, chicken or beef
Ginger, garlic
Soy sauce
Broth (or water)
Chili pepper and spices (according to the recipe)
Preparation :

Brown the meat in a pan with a little oil.
Add the chopped garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.
Add the broth (or water) and simmer until the meat is almost cooked.
Stir in the mustard greens and simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the greens are very tender.
Add soy sauce and salt to taste.
Serve with white rice.

  • 4. Marinated or pickled
    In some regions, mustard greens can be pickled or marinated. This preserves the leaves for longer while adding a unique flavor.

Main ingredients:

Chinese large leaf mustard leaves
Vinegar (rice or white vinegar)
Salt
Sugar
Spices such as ginger or chili (optional)
Preparation :

Wash and chop the mustard leaves.
Boil a solution of vinegar, sugar, and salt to create the marinade.
Dip the mustard leaves into the boiling liquid, then let cool.
Store in an airtight jar and let marinate for a few days before consuming.

  • 5. In salad
    Although less common, it is possible to eat young Chinese Big Leaf Mustard shoots raw in salads, especially if they are young and tender.

Main ingredients:

Young mustard leaves
Sesame oil or vinegar
Soy sauce
Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Preparation :

Wash the young mustard leaves thoroughly.
Mix them with a light seasoning made from soy sauce, sesame oil and a little vinegar.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Chinese broadleaf mustard is a very versatile vegetable in Asian cuisine. It can be used in many ways, from quick stir-fries to hearty soups or even stews. Its slightly spicy flavor pairs well with savory sauces, ginger, garlic, and other spices typical of Asian cuisine.
HOW TO GROW?

Tips and tricks

  • Companionship with other plants
    Planting garlic, onions, shallots, or leeks between mustard plants can help prevent disease and repel certain insects. These companion plants have the advantage of producing natural substances that repel pests.
  • Crop rotation
    To avoid soil depletion and crop-specific disease problems, crop rotation is recommended. Do not grow Chinese Bigleaf Mustard (or other Brassicaceae) in the same location every year.
  • Regular harvest for continuous growth
    For a continuous and longer harvest, regularly cut the outer leaves rather than harvesting the entire plant. This will encourage the plant to produce new leaves. In addition, mustard regenerates fairly quickly after cutting.
  • Avoid high heat
    Chinese bigleaf mustard prefers moderate temperatures. If growing this variety in summer, ensure the plants are protected from excessive heat, particularly by growing them in a partially shaded area during the hottest parts of the day.

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

  • Species: Brassica juncea
  • Sowing: Outdoors: From early April to May. You can also sow consecutively every 3 weeks until September for a continuous harvest. In October, you can sow in a cold frame to extend the crop into winter.
  • In a greenhouse: If using an outdoor greenhouse or cold frame, start seeds indoors in early April, then transplant the plants in late April or early May.
  • Direct sowing in open ground: From mid-May, you can sow directly in open ground when temperatures are warm enough.
  • Seeds: 3 seeds per cell or pot in April and plant the plants in late April or early May in a cold frame greenhouse.
    From mid-May, put the seeds directly into the ground.
  • Sowing depth: 0.5cm
  • Germination time: 5-14 days
  • Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and well-drained
  • Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
  • Spacing between plants: 12-15cm
  • Height at maturity: 30-45cm (can weigh up to 4 lbs)
  • Maturity: Harvest your Chinese Bigleaf Mustard plants after 50 to 70 days of growth. This variety can be harvested earlier for young, tender leaves or later for more developed leaves.
  • Seed per envelope: +/- 100

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.

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