1001 Chinese Food Menu part2

Chinese moss vegetable. The vegetable called Fat Choy (发菜; fà cài), also known as hair vegetable or black moss. It’s actually a type of terrestrial cyanobacterium, a photosynthetic bacteria that dries up into thin black filaments resembling hair. #chinesecuisines #foodschina #culturechina Here are some facts about Fat Choy: Growth: It grows on the ground in areas with arid climates, particularly in the Gobi Desert and the Qinghai Plateau in China. Harvesting: Over-harvesting has been a concern as it can lead to further desertification. The Chinese government has implemented restrictions on harvesting Fat Choy. Soaking: Before consumption, Fat Choy must be soaked in water for several hours or overnight. This process hydrates and softens the black filaments, making them suitable for cooking. Texture: Once rehydrated, Fat Choy has a soft and slippery texture, similar to vermicelli. Flavor: It has a mild, earthy flavor and is often used as a thickener or textural el