Stirfried grass head, known as “cao gan” in Mandarin, is a beloved dish in Shanghainese cuisine that highlights the region’s affinity for fresh, seasonal ingredients. Often prepared in homes and served in restaurants, this dish combines the unique flavors of the grass head—a leafy green known for its tender texture—with a medley of aromatic seasonings and ingredients that elevate its taste.
What Is Grass Head?
Grass head is not a common vegetable but is known for its fresh, green leaves, often harvested from the wild in the spring. This flavorful herb offers a slight crunch and a grasslike aroma, making it a delightful addition to meals. When cooked, grass head takes on a tender yet firm consistency, allowing it to pair beautifully with a variety of ingredients.
Ingredients for StirFried Grass Head
A traditional stirfried grass head dish generally includes:
Fresh grass head (washed and cut into manageable pieces)
Garlic, finely chopped (for aromatic depth)
Ginger, sliced (to add warmth)
Red chili peppers (for a spicy kick)
Soy sauce (for savory richness)
Sesame oil (for a nutty undertone)
Salt and sugar (to balance the flavors)
Optional ingredients: tofu, mushrooms, or other seasonal vegetables
The Cooking Technique
Stirfrying is the preferred method to prepare grass head, as it retains the vibrant color and crisp texture. Here’s a stepbystep process to achieve the perfect stirfry:
1. Preparation: Start by thoroughly washing the grass head to remove any dirt. Cut it into 23 inch pieces for easy handling. Prepare the garlic, ginger, and any other additional ingredients you wish to add.
2. Heating the Wok: Heat a wok or large frying pan over mediumhigh heat. Once it’s hot, add a splash of cooking oil, swirling it to coat the bottom.
3. Aromatics First: Add the chopped garlic and sliced ginger to the hot oil. Stirfry for a few seconds until they become fragrant—be careful not to burn them.
4. Add Grass Head: Introduce the grass head to the wok, stirring briskly to combine it with the aromatics. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a delightful aroma!
5. Seasoning: Sprinkle in the soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, salt, and sugar. Continue to stirfry for about 24 minutes, allowing the grass head to soften slightly but still retain its signature crunch.
6. Optional Ingredients: If you’re including tofu, mushrooms, or other vegetables, add them during this stage and stirfry until they are cooked through.
7. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat. The dish is best enjoyed hot to truly appreciate the fresh flavors.
How to Eat StirFried Grass Head
Stirfried grass head is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some popular methods for savoring this delicacy:
As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside steamed rice to complement a variety of proteins such as fish, chicken, or pork. The lightness of the grass head balances the richness of meat dishes.
In a Wrap: For a more casual option, use lettuce leaves or tortillas to wrap spoonfuls of grass head. Adding some chili sauce or a drizzle of sesame dressing can elevate the flavors further.
With Noodles: Incorporate stirfried grass head into a bowl of noodles, mixing in your choice of savory broth or sauce. This creates a hearty meal that combines the wholesome greens with the comforting texture of noodles.
Topped on Rice Congee: For a breakfast twist, serve the dish over warm rice congee for a nourishing start to the day.
Stirfried grass head is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight with its vibrant green hues. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a star ingredient, this Shanghainese gem offers a fresh and flavorful experience, embodying the spirit of seasonal eating. Enjoy the journey of preparing and savoring this exquisite dish, and immerse yourself in the rich culinary landscape of Shanghai!