Zhenyuan Taoist Vegetable

Zhenyuan Taoist Vegetable

　　Zhenyuan Taoist Vegetable, according to legend, was created by Taoist monks in the Qinglong Cave of Zhenyuan. The longer it is stored, the better its flavor, hence it is also known as Aged Taoist Vegetable. The preparation method uses leafy greens as the main ingredient, which are sun-dried until the leaves soften, then washed and air-dried until about 80% dry. Salt is added and the greens are kneaded before being placed in a jar to ferment overnight. The process of sun-drying and kneading is repeated four or five times to ensure the salt fully penetrates the leaves and stems. It is then steamed in a bamboo steamer, sprinkled with liquor, and sealed in an earthenware jar for three months before it can be taken out and eaten. Ways to enjoy it include serving it cold in salads, stir-frying, using it as a hot pot ingredient, or adding it to soups.