Fake ginseng is named after its thick main root, which resembles ginseng. Therefore, it is also known as "earth ginseng" or "Lulan". It is believed to have the function of nourishing the body and can be used as medicine, food, and ornamental plants.
Fake ginseng has thick and sturdy roots that resemble ginseng and can be dug up and eaten. People often use the roots of Lulan (fake ginseng) in cooking. Common ways of eating include cold salad with fake ginseng roots and stewed pork ribs with fake ginseng roots.
The price of fake ginseng roots is much cheaper than genuine ginseng, and they are sold as vegetables in the market, making them affordable for ordinary people. The soup stewed with fake ginseng roots is comparable to medicinal cuisine, as it can clear heat, detoxify, nourish deficiency, and calm the mind, living up to its name as "fake ginseng".
Fake ginseng is distributed in many rural areas, and it may have different names in different regions. It is called "earth ginseng" because its roots resemble ginseng.
In addition, the leaves of fake ginseng can also be eaten as vegetables. They can also be dried and brewed into tea, which has a particularly good taste. It is also a good medicinal material with detoxifying, nourishing the body, and moisturizing the lungs.
Moreover, in terms of appearance, the root system of fake ginseng grows very thick and sturdy, resembling ginseng, and it can also be consumed. In folk culture, people often use fake ginseng roots in cooking. Common ways of eating include cold salad with fake ginseng roots and stewed pork ribs with fake ginseng roots.
In Guangzhou, the tender stems and leaves of fake ginseng are called "ginseng vegetables", and local growers specialize in growing them to supply the market in Guangzhou.
As for why it is called "ginseng vegetables", in addition to using ginseng as a "gimmick", it is also because it has similar effects to ginseng.
Ginseng vegetables contain high levels of protein, vitamin C, amino acids, calcium, zinc, iron, and other elements. They have the functions of nourishing qi, moisturizing the lungs, and promoting lactation and reducing swelling. For people with weak constitution and lack of energy, they can nourish the body.
