Chinese Cabbage Tsoi Sim Choy Sum - Brassica rapa

The Chinese Cabbage Tsoi Sim Choy Sum is an exotic leafy vegetable, similar to Chinese cabbage and pak choi. Both the stems and flowers are consumed, and they have a delicate taste, similar to asparagus. It can be eaten raw or cooked, but it's best when cooked briefly. Sow under 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. They belong, like their European counterparts, to the large Brassicaceae family and are known by the species name Brassica rapa.

These cabbages, which were once only found in certain specialized shops, are gradually gaining popularity in our markets and gardens, much to the delight of 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, they are rich in vitamins C, A, and potassium, and also contain a lot of fiber 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 vegetable garden, growing Tsoi Sim Choy Sum is slightly more delicate than growing traditional cabbages because it requires more warmth, but it has the same requirements: deep soil, excellent fertilization, and regular moisture. It should be planted in a sunny spot. Chinese cabbages are not very hardy and can only be grown in late summer and early winter.

Harvest: Tsai-Shim flowering cabbage can be harvested from July to September as needed, by cutting at the collar level.

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

Gardener's tip: To limit 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.