Chinese lettuce, also known as stem lettuce or celery lettuce, is a leafy vegetable that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. It is different from Western lettuce varieties, as it has a long, thick stem with leaves that grow out from the top. The stem is typically the most prized part of the plant, as it is crisp and tender with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
The taste of Chinese lettuce leaves is similar to that of Western lettuce, but with a slightly stronger and more robust flavor. The leaves are tender and have a slightly crunchy texture, while the stem is juicy and refreshing. In terms of flavor, Chinese lettuce is often compared to a cross between celery and lettuce.