Definition

1. Noun:
   • A variety of lettuce cultivated primarily for its thick, edible stem: "stem lettuce" refers to a specific type of lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. asparagina) where the main edible part is the crisp, elongated stem, rather than the leaves which are typically smaller and less developed.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The primary use is to identify this specific vegetable variety. It is often used in culinary contexts.
  • Stem lettuce is a key ingredient in many Asian stir-fry dishes.
  • At the market, I bought some stem lettuce for a salad.

Advanced Usage

• Culinary Application: The stem is typically peeled to remove a fibrous outer layer, then sliced or chopped for cooking. It can be eaten raw, stir-fried, or pickled.
  • The chef demonstrated how to properly prepare stem lettuce by peeling its tough outer skin.

Variants and Related Words

• Celtuce: This is a common commercial name and portmanteau (celery + lettuce) for stem lettuce.
  • Celtuce is another name for stem lettuce.
• Asparagus lettuce: Another synonym highlighting the stem's resemblance to asparagus spears.

Synonyms

• Celtuce
• Asparagus lettuce
• Chinese lettuce (Note: This term can sometimes refer to other leafy varieties, but is often used for stem lettuce in culinary contexts.)

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Lettuce: The general category of leafy vegetables to which stem lettuce belongs.
• Stem vegetable: A broader category including celery, rhubarb, and asparagus.

Noun

1. lettuce valued especially for its edible stems