Wujiang Zhacai (Sichuan Preserved Vegetable), Set of 5

One of the most beloved of China's vast array of preserved vegetables, zhacai is a condiment made from the tuber of a Chinese mustard green preserved in a chili pepper spice mix.

Long known in the West as "Sichuan preserved vegetable," it traditionally came in a can as a whole, knotty tuber that had to be rinsed and was made in Taiwan. But the home of zhacai is actually the Fuling District of Chongqing, an independent municipality that was previously part of Sichuan province.

The Wujiang brand is a local favorite that has conquered the globe—the top of the packet proclaims 15 billion packs sold worldwide! Zhacai is eaten as a condiment with congee and Sichuan noodle soups or a side pickle with any meal. This zhacai is ready to eat right out of the package and should NOT be rinsed.

Zhacai is also used occasionally as a cooking ingredient, but do not confuse it with Sichuan's Yibin yacai, which is a preserved mustard green that is made and tastes completely different (and is the traditional pickle for dan dan noodles).

Wujiang zhacai comes in various shapes and flavors. This one, our favorite, is cut in thin strips and is wei la, or slightly spicy. 

We sell this zhacai as five packets per order. Store unopened packets at room temperature, but once open, transfer any remaining pickle to an air-tight container and store in refrigerator.