This item
Choy Sum
- Stem / stalkStems are usually slimmer than Chinese kale
- LeavesLeaves are thinner, narrower and bright green
- Flower budsMature bunches may show small yellow buds
Vegetables
Choy Sum
A common Hong Kong leafy vegetable with slender green stems and, when mature, small yellow flower buds.
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3 identity clues
- Stems are usually slimmer than Chinese kale
- Leaves are thinner, narrower and bright green
- Mature bunches may show small yellow buds
Names in other languages
- 繁體中文
- 菜心
- English
- Choy Sum
- Bahasa Indonesia
- Caisim (菜心 / Choy Sum)
- Tagalog
- Choy Sum (菜心)
Name in Cantonese (Jyutping): coi3 sam1 No Cantonese voice on this device
What is it?
Choy sum is a common leafy vegetable in Hong Kong homes. It is also called flowering Chinese cabbage. Market bunches may not yet have flowers, so check the stems and leaves too.
How to identify it
Look for slender green stems, narrower bright-green leaves and longer leaf stalks. Small yellow buds or flowers may appear near the top, but flowers are not always present.
Common confusion
Compare
Chinese Kale (Gai Lan)
- Stem / stalkStems usually thicker than choy sum
- LeavesFirm dark leaves with a slightly waxy surface
- Flower budsMature bunches may have small white buds
Compare
Shanghai Bok Choy
- Stem / stalkShort, thick pale-green stalks
- LeavesRounded to spoon-shaped green leaves
- Flower budsNot listed on this page
Compact, low upright bunch
How to identify it
Choy sum usually has slim stems, thinner leaves and yellow flowers; Chinese kale usually has thick stems, firm dark leaves and often white flowers.
Common Hong Kong household uses
Commonly stir-fried with garlic, blanched or added to soup.
Choosing & preparing
Check each stalk, wash where leaves meet the stems and drain well. Cook thicker stems before the leaves when needed.
Storage
Keep dry in the refrigerator vegetable drawer and use soon. Discard slimy, badly yellowed or rotten parts.
Helper tip
Chinese kale usually has thicker stems and firmer, waxier leaves. If unsure, send the employer a photo before buying.
What Ma’am or Sir may say
買一斤菜心返嚟。The employer is asking you to buy about one catty of choy sum at the market.
Useful market phrase
唔該要一斤嫩菜心。Meaning: One catty (斤) of tender Choy Sum, please.
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