Stem lettuce, also known as celtuce, is a type of lettuce that is grown for its thick, juicy stem rather than its leaves. The word is spelled s-t-e-m l-e-t-t-u-c-e and is pronounced /ˈstɛm ˈlɛtɪs/. The first syllable, "stem," is pronounced with a short e sound, while the second syllable, "lettuce," is pronounced with a short i sound. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to clarify the proper pronunciation of this unique vegetable.
Stem lettuce, also known as Chinese lettuce or celtuce, is a type of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) characterized by its elongated stem and large leaves. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly grown and consumed in Asian countries, especially China.
The stem of the stem lettuce is the main edible part of the plant. It grows upright and can reach a length of up to two feet. The stem is thick and fleshy with a slightly rough texture, and it is usually harvested before it becomes tough or fibrous. The leaves are broad and dark green, resembling the leaves of romaine lettuce.
Stem lettuce is highly versatile and can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. When eaten raw, the stem can be sliced thinly and added to salads or used as a wrap for fillings. It has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor, similar to butter lettuce, with a crisp and refreshing texture. When cooked, stem lettuce can be stir-fried, sautéed, or steamed, enhancing its tender and delicate taste.
Rich in vitamins A and C, stem lettuce is also a good source of dietary fiber and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron. It is considered a low-calorie vegetable, making it a healthy addition to a well-balanced diet.
Overall, stem lettuce is cherished for its unique combination of flavors and textures, making it a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines and contributing to its growing popularity worldwide.
The etymology of the word "stem lettuce" can be broken down as follows:
1. Stem: The word "stem" comes from the Old English word "stefn", which originally referred to the main upright part of a plant. It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "stamnaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "steb(h)-", meaning "to support, stiffen".
2. Lettuce: The term "lettuce" originates from the Old French word "latues", which was derived from the Latin word "lectuca". The Latin term was believed to have been borrowed from an ancient Mediterranean language, possibly Egyptian or Semitic in origin.
Combining "stem" and "lettuce", we get "stem lettuce", a variety of lettuce that is valued for its elongated and edible stem.