Glossary

The young sprouts of the mung bean, the plant which also produces the product from which soy sauce and soya protein are derived. Bean sprouts are used extensively as a vegetable in Chinese cooking and can be obtained fresh from Chinese or oriental provision stores. Fresh sprouts will keep for about two days in the refrigerator. To keep longer, transfer to a screw-top container, immerse in cold water, and keep in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to two weeks, providing the water is changed every two or three days. If fresh sprouts are not available, canned can be substituted but rinse canned bean sprouts thoroughly under cold running water before using.