Gai lan

Gai lan, also known as Chinese broccoli or Chinese kale, is a leafy vegetable in the species *Brassica oleracea* var.

Gai lan, also known as Chinese broccoli or Chinese kale, is a leafy vegetable in the species Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra. It is grown for its edible leaves, stems, flower buds and flowers, and is widely used in East and Southeast Asian cuisine. In Canada, it is commonly sold in grocery stores and Asian markets.

Description

Gai lan is a leafy brassica with waxy blue-green leaves, thick stems and small broccoli-like flower buds. Compared with common broccoli, it is usually harvested as individual stems rather than a single head. The whole above-ground plant is edible, including the leaves, stems, flower buds and flowers.

Names and taxonomy

The plant is known by several names, including gai lan, kai-lan, Chinese broccoli, Chinese kale and jie lan. Its scientific name is Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra. It is a cultivar or variety of the species Brassica oleracea, which also includes common broccoli, cabbage, and kale.

Cultivation and harvest

Gai lan is grown as a cool-season vegetable and is typically ready for harvest within about 6 to 10 weeks in garden settings and commercial production. It is usually picked before flowering is fully underway, as the flower buds are also edible and the plant is often harvested as individual stems. The crop is commonly grown in Canada and other temperate regions.

Culinary use

The vegetable is valued for its slightly bitter, crisp stems and tender leaves. It is commonly stir-fried, steamed or sautéed, and the buds and flowers are also eaten. Gai lan is especially associated with Cantonese and broader East and Southeast Asian cooking, and is frequently used in stir-fries alongside other ingredients.