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Seed | Pak Choi Shanghai Purple
$3.99 CAD
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Shanghai Violet Pak Choi seeds, a distinctive variety prized for its tender leaves and deep purple color. Ideal for growing in pots or in the ground, this seed produces robust, fast-maturing plants.
A LITTLE HISTORY
Shanghai Violet bok choy is a fascinating variety of bok choy, known for its vibrant color and unique qualities. Its history is deeply rooted in Chinese agricultural traditions and extends across the world through expanding trade and culinary cultures.
- Origin and History
Shanghai Purple Pac choy has its roots in the Yangtze River Delta, a region rich in biodiversity where many leafy vegetables have been cultivated for millennia. The Yangtze Delta, with its favorable climate and fertile soils, has been a hub for the development and cultivation of Pac choy, including its distinctive variety, Shanghai Purple.
Although the precise origins of Shanghai Purple Pac choi are obscure, it is widely believed that it has been cultivated in China since ancient times. Pac choi, in general, is a cruciferous vegetable that has been eaten in China since the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). Shanghai Purple is a variety distinguished by its deep purple leaves, a specific adaptation that is likely the result of selection and crossbreeding over the centuries to suit culinary and aesthetic preferences.
- Propagation and Diffusion
The introduction of pac choi outside of China began in the 16th century, when European traders and explorers began to trade with Southeast Asia. Pac choi, particularly Shanghai Purple, gained attention for its nutritional qualities and versatility in cooking. During the 19th century, with the expansion of trade routes and migration, pac choi was introduced to Europe and North America.
In Europe, it has become popular in Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese and Japanese communities. In the United States, pac choy has found a place in ethnic markets and specialty grocery stores, where it is prized for its delicate flavor and attractive color.
- Cultivation and Modern Use
Today, Purple Shanghai Pac Choy is widely cultivated in several parts of Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea. These countries have incorporated Purple Shanghai into their local cuisines, utilizing its crisp leaves and slightly sweet flavor in a variety of traditional and modern dishes. - In Southeast Asia, the Shanghai Violet is also popular, where it is often used in soups, stir-fries, and various vegetable dishes. Outside of Asia, it is grown in Australia, South Africa, and Europe, where it is sold primarily at farmers' markets and specialty grocery stores. Due to its specific climatic and growing requirements, the Shanghai Violet Pac choy is relatively rare in Canada, but it can sometimes be found at local markets or stores specializing in Asian products.
- Features and Benefits
Shanghai Purple Pac choy is distinguished not only by its unique purple color, but also by its nutritional benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron. Its purple color is due to the presence of antioxidants, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and the prevention of chronic diseases.
In short, Shanghai Purple Pac choy is both an ancient and modern vegetable, whose history reflects the cultural and commercial exchanges that have shaped the world's cuisines. Its growing presence in international markets is a testament to its continued appeal and exceptional qualities, both aesthetically and nutritionally.
PROPERTIES
Purple Shanghai Pac choy, like other varieties of bok choy, has several medicinal properties that make it valuable in nutrition and traditional medicine. Here's a detailed breakdown of the medicinal properties of this fascinating vegetable:
- Nutrient Richness
Shanghai Purple Pac choy is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals: - Vitamins: It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin A is crucial for eye health and immune function, while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and aids in tissue repair. Vitamin K plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health.
Minerals: This vegetable is a good source of calcium, iron, and potassium. Calcium is essential for healthy bones and teeth, iron is important for red blood cell formation and preventing anemia, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure and maintain fluid balance in the body. - Antioxidant Properties
Shanghai Purple Pac choy contains powerful antioxidants, including flavonoids and carotenoids. These compounds help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The purple color of this variety indicates the presence of antioxidant pigments, such as anthocyanins, which have cell-protective effects. - Anti-inflammatory Effects
The antioxidants in Purple Shanghai Pac Choy also have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for people suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. Regularly including Pac Choy in the diet can contribute to effective inflammation management.
- Immune System Support
Thanks to its high content of vitamin C and other essential nutrients, Shanghai Purple Pac Choy plays an important role in supporting the immune system. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals strengthens the body's natural defenses against disease. - Digestive Properties
Purple Shanghai Pac Choy is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes good digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity. Dietary fiber helps prevent constipation and contributes to the overall health of the digestive system. Additionally, good digestion is essential for efficient nutrient absorption. - Heart Health Support
The combination of potassium, fiber, and antioxidants in Purple Shanghai Pac Choy contributes to heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension. Dietary fiber helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. - Diuretic effect
Shanghai Purple Pac Choy has natural diuretic properties, which helps promote the elimination of excess fluids from the body. A diuretic effect can be beneficial for managing water retention and maintaining a healthy fluid balance in the body. - Detoxifying Properties
The nutrients in Purple Shanghai Pac Choy, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, play a role in detoxifying the body. They help support liver and kidney function, facilitating the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste.
Traditional Use
In traditional Chinese medicine, Pac choy is often used for its beneficial properties on the digestive system and its ability to soothe internal inflammation. It is sometimes recommended to treat conditions such as constipation and dietary imbalances.
In short, Purple Shanghai Pac Choy is not only an attractive and tasty vegetable, but it also offers a wide range of health benefits. Its richness in essential nutrients, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its beneficial effect on the digestive and cardiac systems, make it a valuable addition to any balanced diet.
HOW TO COOK?
Shanghai Purple Pac choy, like other bok choy varieties, is widely used in traditional Asian cuisine. In China, Japan, and Korea, it is prepared in a variety of ways to highlight its crisp texture and slightly sweet flavor. Here are some traditional preparation methods and typical recipes:
- Stir-fried with Ginger and Garlic
Ingredients :
1 bunch of Shanghai Purple Pac choy
2 tablespoons of sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 piece of fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation :
Wash the Shanghai Purple Pac choy thoroughly and cut it into pieces, separating the leaves from the stems if necessary.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
Add the Pac choy stems and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the pac choy leaves and continue to stir-fry until wilted.
Stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot as a side dish or over rice.
- Shanghai Purple Pac Choi Soup
Ingredients :
1 bunch of Shanghai Purple Pac choy
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 carrot, sliced
1 shiitake mushroom, sliced
1 piece of fresh ginger, sliced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
A few sprigs of coriander for garnish
Preparation :
Wash the Pac choy and cut it into pieces.
In a large saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the ginger and sauté briefly.
Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
Add the carrots and mushrooms, and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the Pac choy and cook until tender.
Stir in the soy sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
- Purple Shanghai Pac Choi Salad
Ingredients :
1 bunch of Shanghai Purple Pac choy
1 carrot, grated
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
1 tablespoon of soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon of honey
Preparation :
Wash the Pac choy, dry it and cut it into strips.
In a large bowl, combine the Pac choy, carrot, and bell pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
- Pac choy in soy and oyster sauce
Ingredients :
1 bunch of Shanghai Purple Pac choy
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of cornstarch (dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water)
Preparation :
Wash and cut the Pac choy into pieces.
In a skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the garlic and sauté until golden.
Add the Pac choy and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, and mix well.
Add diluted cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Continue to cook until the Pac choy is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Serve hot as a side dish.
- Pac choy with chicken and cashew nuts
Ingredients :
1 bunch of Shanghai Purple Pac choy
200g chicken breast, cut into pieces
1/2 cup cashews
2 tablespoons of sesame oil
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
1 teaspoon of sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
Preparation :
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken and brown until cooked through.
Add the garlic and sauté briefly.
Add the cashews and toast them lightly.
Stir in the Pac choy and stir-fry until just cooked through.
Mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, and sugar, then pour over the chicken and pac choy mixture.
Stir-fry for a few more minutes until the sauce is well coated and the Pac choy is tender.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
These traditional recipes showcase the versatility of Shanghai Purple Pac Choy and its ability to adapt to various dishes while bringing fresh and delicate flavors. Used in simple or more elaborate preparations, it remains a popular choice in Asian cuisines and beyond.
HOW TO GROW?
A little growing tip: put garlic, onions, shallots or leeks between each plant,
This will prevent you from getting diseases.
For the distance between the pac choi, use the length of your hand and put 2 seeds per hole in the soil.
Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.
- Species: Brassica rapa chinensis
- Sowing: Early April-May (consecutive sowing every 2-3 weeks until September and October in an outdoor greenhouse or
- cold frame greenhouse to have this vegetable during the winter with garden cover in the greenhouse)
- Seeds: 3 seeds per cell or pot in April. From mid-May, put the seeds directly into the ground.
- Sowing depth: 1 cm
- Germination time: 3-8 days
- Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and drained
- Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
- Spacing between plants: 20-25 cm
- Height at maturity: 15-30 cm
- Maturity: 35-45 days
- Seed per envelope: +/-75
Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.