CHINESE LEEK (PREORDER)

~25 - 30 lbs Chinese Leek aka "Zhong-Guo-Suan-Miao", "中国蒜苗", "中國蒜苗" Chinese leek is long and cylindrical; they look like oversized scallions or green onions. The bulbs are white, and then fairly quickly the white goes to light green, then very dark green at the tops. You eat only the tender light green and white bottom portion of the vegetable. Chinese leeks have a mild, onion flavor that adds sweetness to the dish. It is a popular ingredient in a stir fry with meats. Chinese leek is available year-round. Handling Tip Selection Chinese leek is straight and firm with a smooth pearl white base without cracks and bruises. The leaves are dark green and not wilted. Storage Chinese leek should be stored at 32°F (0°C) with a relative humidity of ninety-five to a hundred percent with mist. The typical shelf life is two to three months. The high relative humidity is essential to prevent wilting. High temperature leads to yellowing and rapid decay. Chinese leek is an odor producer and should not be stored with odor-sensitive products. Chinese leek is sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Chinese leek should not be stored with high ethylene-producing products to extend shelf life and avoid softening. Chinese leek produces a very low level of ethylene. Chinese leek is not sensitive to chilling injury and should be stored as cold as possible without freezing.