Ensaladang Talong

Ensaladang Talong Recipe - Traditional Filipino Salad

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ensaladang Talong is a traditional Filipino dish that features grilled or boiled eggplants mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing. This refreshing salad is a popular side dish or appetizer in Filipino cuisine.

History

Ensaladang Talong has been a staple in Filipino households for generations. The dish is believed to have originated in the Philippines, where eggplants are a common ingredient in many dishes. The combination of eggplants, tomatoes, and onions with a flavorful dressing has become a classic recipe that is loved by many.

Ingredients

4 medium-sized eggplants
3 to 4 tomatoes
2 to 3 white onions
0.5 head of garlic
0.13 cup of rice vinegar
0.25 cup of light soy sauce
1 tsp of sugar
1 to 2 chile peppers
0.25 tsp of grated ginger

How to prepare

Boil or steam the eggplants until they are almost mushy.
Allow the eggplants to cool.
Cut the eggplants in half vertically and use a spoon to scrape off the meat.
Place the scraped eggplant meat in a large bowl.
Quarter the tomatoes (or cut them into eighths if they are large).
Do the same with the onions.
Add the tomatoes and onions to the eggplants and lightly toss them together.
Peel and finely mince the garlic.
In a separate bowl, mix together the light soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar.
Add the minced garlic and the chili peppers to the dressing.
Crush the chili peppers with a spoon.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss them together.
Cover the bowl and let the mixture stand for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or tofu for added protein.
Mix in chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herb flavor.
Drizzle with calamansi juice for a citrusy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the eggplants until they are soft and almost mushy for the best texture.

- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

- You can also grill the eggplants for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ensaladang Talong can be served as a side dish to grilled or fried meats, or as a topping for steamed rice.

Cooking Techniques

Boil or steam the eggplants until they are soft, then scrape out the flesh to use in the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in place of rice vinegar. You can also use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Ensaladang Talong can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ensaladang Talong in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or chili peppers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Ensaladang Talong pairs well with grilled meats, fried fish, or adobo dishes. It also goes well with steamed rice or garlic fried rice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Ensaladang Talong in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ensaladang Talong contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ensaladang Talong contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ensaladang Talong contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ensaladang Talong contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ensaladang Talong is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate.

Alergens

Ensaladang Talong is gluten-free and vegan. However, it contains soy sauce, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.

Summary

Ensaladang Talong is a low-calorie, nutritious dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ensaladang Talong is a delicious and nutritious Filipino salad that is easy to make and full of flavor. With its simple ingredients and refreshing taste, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wise and patient woman, who had a treasure trove of recipes passed down through generations. One day, as we were going through her old recipe box, she pulled out a yellowed piece of paper and handed it to me with a twinkle in her eye.

"This, my dear, is a recipe for Ensaladang Talong," she said, her voice filled with nostalgia. "It's a dish that has been in our family for generations. Your great-grandmother used to make it for special occasions, and now it's time for you to learn how to make it."

I eagerly took the recipe from her hands and studied it carefully. The ingredients were simple - eggplants, tomatoes, onions, garlic, vinegar, and fish sauce - but the method of preparation seemed intricate. I watched as my grandmother patiently guided me through each step, teaching me the importance of precision and attention to detail in cooking.

As we cooked together, the kitchen filled with the aroma of roasting eggplants and sizzling garlic. My grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of how she had learned to make Ensaladang Talong from her own mother, and how it had always been a dish that brought our family together. I listened intently, absorbing every word and every gesture as I worked to recreate the dish under her watchful eye.

Finally, after what seemed like hours of chopping, stirring, and tasting, the Ensaladang Talong was ready. I carefully arranged the grilled eggplants on a platter, topping them with a tangy mixture of tomatoes, onions, and garlic dressed in vinegar and fish sauce. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to a time when life was simpler, and the bonds of family were strong.

From that day on, Ensaladang Talong became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just for myself on quiet evenings when I craved the comfort of a familiar dish. Each time I made it, I felt a deep connection to my ancestors, to the women who had come before me and passed down this recipe with love and care.

As the years went by, I continued to refine my technique, adding my own personal touches to the dish while still honoring the traditional flavors and methods of preparation. I taught my own children how to make Ensaladang Talong, passing on the knowledge and love that had been given to me by my grandmother.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing Ensaladang Talong for yet another family gathering, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy and connection to my life. The simple act of cooking this dish is a reminder of the love and heritage that bind us together as a family, and I am thankful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down through the generations.

And as I take that first bite of Ensaladang Talong, I know that the legacy of this recipe will continue to live on, bringing happiness and nourishment to future generations of my family. Cooking is not just about feeding the body, but also about feeding the soul, and I am grateful for the lessons and love that have been shared with me through this simple yet profound dish.