Lettuce production in China facts for kids
Did you know that China grows more lettuce than any other country? In fact, China produces about half of all the lettuce grown worldwide! While you might think of lettuce for salads, in China, a special type called stem lettuce is often cooked. This makes it a unique and important vegetable in Chinese meals. In 2010, China grew over 12.5 million tonnes of lettuce. Taiwan also grows excellent head lettuce, which they sell to other countries.
Contents
A Long History of Lettuce
Lettuce has been grown in China for a very long time. Some records say it arrived in the fifth century, while others suggest the seventh century. It's not fully clear how lettuce first came to China. For many years, China has been the top lettuce grower globally. For example, in 2006, China produced over 11 million tonnes of lettuce. This huge amount shows how important lettuce is to the country.
How Lettuce is Grown
Types of Lettuce in China
China grows many different kinds of lettuce. The most common types include Butterhead, Crisphead, Looseleaf, and Romaine. But a very special one grown widely in China is called Celtuce.
What is Celtuce?
Celtuce is also known as stem lettuce. Its name comes from "celery" and "lettuce" because it has a thick stem like celery and leaves like lettuce. This plant can grow up to 10 to 12 inches tall. The skin of the celtuce stem can taste a bit bitter, so it's usually peeled off. What's left is a soft, green, and clear core that is delicious when cooked.
Growing Conditions
In 2011, China used over 570,000 hectares of land to grow lettuce and chicory. Most of the lettuce grown in China is eaten right there in the country. Another type, called prickly lettuce, also grows in China. It can be found in wild areas like roadsides and gardens. This type of lettuce grows well in lighter or drier soils.
Lettuce in Taiwan
Taiwan, a neighbor of China, also grows a lot of lettuce. They specialize in head lettuce, which grows well in their cool, mountainous areas. Taiwan exports a large amount of this lettuce, sometimes up to half of what they grow. Head lettuce is a good source of Vitamin A and folic acid. Celtuce, the stem lettuce, provides Vitamin C and calcium.
Lettuce in Chinese Cooking
In China, you won't often find lettuce served raw in salads like in many Western countries. Instead, lettuce is usually cooked. It's often stir-fried quickly, sometimes with mushrooms or other vegetables. Chefs add many spices to make it flavorful. Lettuce can also be steamed on its own.
Popular Dishes
Lettuce is often part of meat dishes, like "Sliced Pork Stir Fried with Lettuce." Lettuce soups are also very common. These soups might include fish or minced chicken. For the best soup, fresh and crisp lettuce is chosen, and the soup is eaten hot so it doesn't lose its taste. Other dishes include "Lettuce and Fermented Bean Cake" and "Clear Simmered Bean Curd with Lettuce and Cellophane Noodles." Stem lettuce, especially celtuce, is a popular cooked vegetable.
Cultural Meaning of Lettuce
In China, lettuce is more than just a vegetable. Many people believe it symbolizes wealth and good luck. Because of this, lettuce is often eaten during special celebrations. You might find it served at birthday parties, on New Year's Day, and during other festive occasions. Celtuce is also sometimes pickled and served as a side dish with meals.
Images for kids
-
Meal served on lettuce in Hong Kong.
