Walking Stick Cabbage: A Unique and Nutritious Vegetable

Have you ever heard of walking stick cabbage? This unique vegetable, also known as Chinese celery cabbage or "wosun" in Chinese, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its many health benefits and versatile culinary uses. In this article, we'll explore what walking stick cabbage is, why it's so good for you, and how you can incorporate it into your diet.

What is Walking Stick Cabbage?

Walking stick cabbage is a type of leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family, which includes other popular vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It gets its name from its long, slender, and straight stems that resemble walking sticks. The leaves are dark green and slightly ruffled, with a mild yet slightly bitter flavor that's similar to celery.

This vegetable is native to China and other parts of Asia and has been consumed there for centuries. However, it's only in recent years that it's become more widely available in Western countries, either fresh or packaged in Asian grocery stores.

Health Benefits of Walking Stick Cabbage

Walking stick cabbage is not only tasty but also highly nutritious. Here are some of the health benefits associated with consuming this vegetable regularly:

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Walking stick cabbage is a great source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and calcium. Vitamin C helps support the immune system and may also help reduce inflammation, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure, and calcium is critical for strong bones and teeth.

High in Fiber

Walking stick cabbage is also high in dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and may help lower cholesterol levels. Fiber also helps keep you feeling full longer, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.

May Help Prevent Cancer

Like other cruciferous vegetables, walking stick cabbage contains compounds called glucosinolates that may have anti-cancer properties. These compounds may help prevent cancer by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body and promoting the elimination of toxins.

How to Prepare Walking Stick Cabbage

Walking stick cabbage is easy to prepare and can be used in a variety of dishes. To get started, here are some tips on how to select and store this vegetable:

Selecting Walking Stick Cabbage

When selecting walking stick cabbage, look for firm, crisp stems and bright green leaves. Avoid any that are wilted or have brown spots.

Storing Walking Stick Cabbage

Walking stick cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before storing, remove any rubber bands or ties around the stems and wrap the vegetable in a damp paper towel or plastic bag to help retain moisture.

Cooking with Walking Stick Cabbage

Walking stick cabbage can be eaten raw or cooked. It's commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. One popular Chinese dish that features walking stick cabbage is "wosun soup," which typically includes the vegetable, tofu, and mushrooms in a clear broth.

If you're looking for a simple way to enjoy walking stick cabbage, try sauteing it with garlic and soy sauce or adding it to a vegetable stir-fry. You can also use it as a substitute for celery in recipes, as it has a similar flavor profile.

A photo of fresh walking stick cabbage.

Walking stick cabbage is a flavorful and versatile vegetable that's packed with nutrients. Whether you're looking to add more fiber to your diet or trying to incorporate more cruciferous vegetables, this unique vegetable is definitely worth a try. With its mild yet distinctive taste and numerous health benefits, walking stick cabbage is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Chinese celery cabbage, wosun, Brassica family, vitamins, minerals, fiber, glucosinolates, anti-cancer properties.