Seasonality: Year RoundOrigin: USA, MexicoA welcome addition to the fresh variety of Asian items available from Melissa’s, Nira Grass or Chinese Chives are a favored item at most Asian produce markets. Stronger in flavor than true chives, Nira Grass is available in four major varieties: dark green (known as Green Nira Grass or Garlic Chives), pale yellow (known as Yellow Nira Grass, Yellow Chive or Chive Shoot), a round-stemmed chive topped by a pointed flower bud (known as gau choy fa) and a distinctly flavored chive with a similar appearance (known as gau choy sum.) Popular for use in soups and salads, Nira Grass can be used like an onion. The slender shoots can be snipped and added to sandwiches and spreads or used as a garnish on vegetables.Nira Grass from Melissa’s is hand-selected for excellent quality. Choose chives with full colored leaves and fresh stems. Avoid any slimy areas which could indicate decay. Use as soon as possible and refrigerate, wrapped in damp paper for no more than 2-3 days.Rinse and shake dry. Drain well. Select the freshest leaves and add to recipe.
