Tatsoi (scientifically known as Brassica rapa subsp. narinosa or Brassica rapa var. rosularis) is a unique Asian green that belongs to the Brassica family. This variety, which is cultivated for its tender greens, has gained popularity not only in Asian cuisine but also in North America and around the world.
The term "Tatsoi" is derived from the Mandarin word (塌棵菜 tā kē cài), and it is also known by various other names including Chinese flat cabbage, rosette pakchoi, broadbeaked mustard, spoon mustard, and spinach mustard. In Cantonese, it is transliterated as tat soi or tat choy.
Tatsoi is characterized by its dark green, spoon-shaped leaves that form a compact rosette. The leaves have a creamy, soft texture and a flavor that is both subtle and distinctive, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
This resilient plant can be grown to a harvestable size within 45 to 50 days. It is particularly hardy and can tolerate extremely cold temperatures, down to –10 °C (15 °F), allowing it to be harvested even under snow. This makes Tatsoi a valuable addition to gardens in various climates.