A CLOSER LOOK
How to recognize it
Edible spring buds of Aralia chinensis, called wulongtou in southeastern Gansu, not mature woody stems.
In the kitchen
Trimmed and blanched for cold salads; also stir-fried, dried, frozen or pickled.
Fresh and preserved shoots differ in tenderness and salt. Other Aralia species may share regional names such as cilongya; confirm the actual ingredient.
Ask about this ingredient
这道菜里有乌龙头嫩芽吗？
Does this dish contain Wulongtou aralia shoots?
A few dishes to explore
These examples use this ingredient in typical or optional preparations. Open the dish to see the distinction; a restaurant’s recipe can differ.
