Green Bamboo Shoots (竹笋, Zhú Sǔn)
Green bamboo shoots are the young, tender shoots of bamboo plants, commonly used in Asian cuisine. They have a crisp texture and a mildly sweet, earthy flavor. Bamboo shoots are highly nutritious, low in calories, and rich in fiber, vitamins (such as B6), and minerals (like potassium and manganese).

Culinary Uses:

1. Fresh Bamboo Shoots – Must be boiled before eating to remove bitterness and toxins (like cyanogenic glycosides).
2. Canned/Bamboo Shoots in Water – Pre-cooked and ready to use in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
3. Dried Bamboo Shoots – Rehydrated before cooking, often used in braised dishes.
4. Fermented Bamboo Shoots – A specialty in some regions, used for a tangy, umami flavor.

Popular Dishes:

• Stir-fried Bamboo Shoots (with pork, mushrooms, or chili)
• Bamboo Shoot Soup (with chicken or pork ribs)
• Mapo Tofu (often includes bamboo shoots for texture)
• Thai Curry (bamboo shoots add crunch)

Health Benefits:

✔ Digestive Health – High in dietary fiber.
✔ Low-Calorie – Great for weight management.
✔ Antioxidants – Helps fight inflammation.