Bamboo shoots (healthy, buy, carrots, cook)

[robertpasa]

Why are bamboo shoots usually cut into that long, rectangular shape - is it just a matter of tradition?

Aren't the shoots cylindrical and green originally?

I looked at images of bamboo shoots to see what shape they are in, in nature - I saw so many different images of plants, I couldn't tell what was what. I did find that a "shoot" is a stem.

[Dirt Grinder]

Originally Posted by robertpasa

Why are bamboo shoots usually cut into that long, rectangular shape - is it just a matter of tradition?

Aren't the shoots cylindrical and green originally?...

Cut a cylinder lengthwise and you get... a rectangle.

[Debsi]

Everything we ever wanted to know about bamboo shoots...with pictures.

Fresh, Canned, and Dried Bamboo Shoots - CulinaryLore.com

[leilaniguy]

Sometimes they are sold whole. They look like giant asparagus tips.

[vision33r]

Depending on type, young or old. Young simply cut it like carrots, old cut it into large chunks and slowly cook like large squash. Very healthy item known for anti-aging properties.

[Mikala43]

I buy them canned and whole. They have a different texture than the rectangular ones. Here it's common to buy them that way, but in other places you may need to go to an Asian market.