Bok choy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bok choy |
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Brassica rapa chinensis, called "bok choy" in the United States
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| Species | Brassica rapa |
| Cultivar group | Chinensis, Pekinensis groups |
| Origin | China, before the 15th Century |
Bok choy is a type of Chinese cabbage. People also call it pak choi, boc choy, or pok choi. It belongs to the same plant family as regular cabbage. However, bok choy is not stringy like some other cabbages.
The most common kind of bok choy has dark green, crinkly leaves. These leaves look a bit like Romaine lettuce.
Contents
What is Bok Choy?
Bok choy is a leafy green vegetable. It is very popular in many Asian dishes. You can eat both its crunchy white stalks and its tender green leaves.
Different Types of Bok Choy
There are a few different types of bok choy.
- Regular Bok Choy: This is the most common type. It has white stalks and dark green leaves.
- Baby Bok Choy: This is a smaller version. It is often more tender and has a milder taste.
- Shanghai Bok Choy: This type has light green stalks and leaves. It is also very popular.
History of Bok Choy
Bok choy has a very long history in China. People there have been growing this plant for over 5,000 years!
Old Names for Bok Choy
In China, bok choy is often called "pak choi." This means "white vegetable." Another common name for it is "white cabbage."
How People Use Bok Choy
Bok choy is a healthy and tasty vegetable. It is often used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. You can cook it quickly, and it adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor to meals.
Cooking with Bok Choy
To cook bok choy, you can chop it up. The stalks take a bit longer to cook than the leaves. Many people stir-fry it with garlic and soy sauce. It's also great in noodle dishes.
Images for kids
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Young Bok Choy plants in a garden
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Bok choy ready to be eaten
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White bok choy variety
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Shanghai bok choy, a smaller type
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B. rapa chinensis growing
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B. rapa chinensis has yellow flowers
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See also
In Spanish: Brassica rapa chinensis para niños
