Fijian Broccoli Salad

Fijian Broccoli Salad Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful from Fiji

Region / culture: Fiji | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fijian Broccoli Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the crispiness of broccoli with the savory flavors of bacon and the sweetness of raisins. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The origins of Fijian Broccoli Salad are not clear, but it is a popular dish in Fiji and other Pacific Island countries. The combination of broccoli, bacon, and raisins creates a unique and flavorful salad that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 bunches of broccoli
1 tbsp of cooking oil
6 slices of bacon
0.5 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cup of raisins

How to prepare

Cut the broccoli heads and separate them into small florets.
Steam the florets in a microwave for four minutes. Test a piece to ensure it is crispy-tender and bright green.
If needed, microwave for an additional 1 or 2 minutes, heating in 1-minute intervals.
Immediately transfer the steamed broccoli into a bowl of icy cold water to halt the cooking process.
Drain the broccoli using a colander and set it aside.
In a skillet, heat cooking oil.
Chop the bacon into tiny cubes and sauté them over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess grease.
Prepare the dressing.
Combine the chopped onion, crumbled bacon, and raisins with the dressing, mixing well.
If available, use a salad strainer to remove excess water from the broccoli.
Place the broccoli in a bowl and pour the dressing over it, lightly tossing to coat.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 3 hours to chill and allow the flavors to develop.
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Variations

Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for extra crunch and flavor.
Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a different twist.
Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to steam the broccoli just until it is crispy-tender to retain its bright green color and crunchiness.

- Sautéing the bacon until crispy adds a delicious smoky flavor to the salad.

- Refrigerating the salad for at least 3 hours allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.

Serving Suggestions

Fijian Broccoli Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the broccoli helps to retain its nutrients and vibrant color.

- Sautéing the bacon until crispy adds a delicious smoky flavor to the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use olive oil or coconut oil instead of cooking oil.

- If you don't eat bacon, you can use smoked tofu or tempeh as a vegetarian alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Fijian Broccoli Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fijian Broccoli Salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also goes well with a glass of chilled white wine or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Fijian Broccoli Salad 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

One serving of Fijian Broccoli Salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Fijian Broccoli Salad mainly come from the broccoli and raisins. One serving of this salad contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this salad primarily come from the cooking oil used to sauté the bacon. One serving of Fijian Broccoli Salad contains around 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

The protein in this salad comes from the bacon. One serving of Fijian Broccoli Salad provides about 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and fiber. Raisins provide iron and potassium. This salad is a nutritious dish that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. Please check for any allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Fijian Broccoli Salad is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals, with a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a delicious and healthy option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Fijian Broccoli Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a light meal or side dish. With the combination of crispy broccoli, savory bacon, and sweet raisins, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Fijian Broccoli Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and tattered magazine clippings, a faded piece of paper caught my eye. The title at the top read "Fijian Broccoli Salad," and I was intrigued.

I have always had a passion for cooking, and trying new recipes from different cultures has been a favorite pastime of mine. I have collected recipes from all corners of the world, from my travels and from friends and family. But I had never come across a Fijian recipe before, and I was eager to give it a try.

The recipe was written in a neat, cursive script, with detailed instructions on how to make the salad. It called for fresh broccoli, diced red onion, shredded coconut, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice, honey, and soy sauce. It sounded delicious, and I couldn't wait to get started.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the broccoli into bite-sized florets and diced the red onion, I couldn't help but think about the origins of this recipe. How had it come to be in my possession? Who had shared it with me, and why?

I closed my eyes and tried to imagine myself in Fiji, surrounded by lush tropical forests and crystal-clear waters. I could almost smell the salty sea breeze and hear the rustling of palm trees in the wind. I pictured a bustling market filled with fresh produce and vibrant colors, where locals sold their wares and shared their culinary secrets with eager visitors like myself.

As I tossed the broccoli and onion with the shredded coconut and poured the tangy dressing over it all, I felt a sense of connection to the people of Fiji. Even though I had never been there, I felt as though I was a part of their community, sharing in their traditions and flavors through this simple salad.

When I finally tasted the finished dish, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The crisp broccoli was perfectly complemented by the sweet coconut and the zesty dressing, creating a harmony of tastes and textures that danced on my palate. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the world we live in.

Since that day, I have made Fijian Broccoli Salad countless times, each batch a tribute to the unknown cook who first shared it with me. I like to imagine them in their kitchen, surrounded by loved ones, passing down their culinary knowledge through generations. I feel grateful to have been a recipient of their wisdom, and I hope to honor their memory every time I make this salad.

As I sit here now, savoring a bowl of Fijian Broccoli Salad, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the journey that led me to this recipe. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to bridge the gaps between cultures and generations. And this salad, with its roots in a far-off land, has brought me closer to a part of the world I may never visit, but will always hold dear in my heart.

So here's to you, unknown cook from Fiji, wherever you may be. Thank you for sharing your recipe with me, and for allowing me to taste a slice of your world. I will cherish it always, and pass it on to my own loved ones, so that your legacy may live on through the generations. Cheers to the power of food to unite us all, no matter how far apart we may be.