Bamboo

Fresh bamboo is not readily obtainable in the West, but if it can be found, do use it as it has quite a different taste to canned bamboo. To prepare fresh bamboo, peel and finely slice the bamboo stalk; wash it and then blanch it in boiling salted water; drain and refresh. Bring some fresh salted water to the boil, then add the blanched bamboo and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until tender and not too bitter. To prepare canned bamboo (either whole or sliced), rinse it in several changes of water, then place in enough cold salted water to cover, bring to a boil, boil for 1 minute, then drain under cold running water.