Chinese Cabbage Tsai Shim - Brassica parachinensis

The Tsai-Shim Bouquet Cauliflower, also known as Tsoi Sim, Choi Sum, or Chinese Broccoli, is a vegetable closely related to Chinese Cabbage and Pak-Choi. Both the stems and flowers are consumed and have a delicate taste, similar to asparagus. It can be eaten raw or cooked but should be cooked briefly. It is sown in a heated shelter from March to May or directly in the ground from May to August for a harvest from July to September.

Chinese Cabbages are vegetable plants native to China and, more generally, to East Asia. Like their European counterparts, they belong to the large Brassicaceae family and have the species name Brassica rapa.

These cabbages, once only found in certain specialised shops, are gradually gaining popularity in our markets and gardens, especially among Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

They are biennial plants grown as annuals and are full of qualities, both in terms of taste and nutrition. From a dietary point of view, they are remarkable: low in calories, very rich in vitamins C, A, and potassium, and they also contain a lot of fibre and minerals such as calcium.

In cooking, these cabbages can be eaten raw or cooked: in salads, quickly stir-fried in a wok, in soups, or gratins.

In the garden, growing Tsai-Shim Bouquet Cauliflower is a bit more delicate than growing traditional cabbages as it requires more warmth. Still, it has the exact requirements: deep soil, excellent fertilization, and regular watering. It thrives in sunny locations. Chinese Cabbages are not very hardy and can only be grown in late summer and early winter.

Harvest: Tsai-Shim Bouquet Cauliflower can be harvested from July to September by cutting at the collar level with a knife.

Storage: It can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Gardener's tip: To reduce the need for watering, we recommend mulching the soil with thin layers of grass clippings, preferably mixed with dead leaves, once the plants are well established. This protective layer helps keep the soil moist and also reduces weed growth.