Sichuan preserved vegetable

A speciality of Sichuan Province, this is the root of the mustard green which is pickled in salt and hot chillies. Sold in tins in Chinese grocers, it gives a pleasantly crunchy texture and spicy taste to dishes. Before using, rinse in cold water, then slice or chop as required. Any unused vegetable can be transferred to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and stored in the fridge where it can be kept indefinitely.