Romaine lettuce is a type of salad lettuce. Toward the bottom of the lettuce, the leaves become sturdier and have thick, white ribs that contain a slightly bitter fluid. This gives romaine lettuce its distinctive taste. The amount of this bitter fluid increases farther down the stalk. When you want to avoid bitterness, throw away the thickest part of the leaves.
Thoroughly wash romaine lettuce before use by pulling off each leaf and rinsing any debris or dirt from the surface. Alternatively, soak the lettuce in water briefly and lightly massage the leaves to remove the dirt, then dry with a dishcloth or in a salad spinner.
You can chop the leaves or use them whole, depending on personal preference or the recipe.
