Oriental Cabbage Salad Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Oriental Cabbage Salad

Oriental Cabbage Salad Recipe - Chinese Cuisine
Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Oriental Cabbage Salad
Oriental Cabbage Salad

Oriental Cabbage Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines crunchy cabbage, flavorful green onions, and nutty sesame seeds. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The Oriental Cabbage Salad recipe has its origins in Asian cuisine, where cabbage is a commonly used ingredient in many dishes. This salad has been adapted and popularized in Western countries, where it has become a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, onion, seeds, almonds, and ramen noodles.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining ingredients and pour over the cabbage mixture. Toss gently.

Variations

  • Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
  • Use a different type of nut, such as cashews or peanuts, for a different taste.
  • Substitute the white vinegar with rice vinegar for a milder flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the sesame seeds and almonds for added flavor and crunch.

- Crumble the ramen noodles before adding them to the salad for a unique texture.

- Toss the salad gently to ensure that the dressing is evenly distributed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Oriental Cabbage Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes such as stir-fries or sushi.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the sesame seeds and almonds adds depth of flavor to the salad. Crumbling the ramen noodles before adding them to the salad creates a unique texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have white vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar in the dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Oriental Cabbage Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates garnished with extra sesame seeds and green onions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Oriental Cabbage Salad with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect summer meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Oriental Cabbage Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly wilted, but can still be enjoyed. Do not freeze the salad as the cabbage will become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 20g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 6% of daily value per serving

Iron: 8% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains nuts (almonds) and gluten (ramen noodles)

Summary

Oriental Cabbage Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamin C, calcium, and iron. It is a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Summary

Oriental Cabbage Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a light meal or side dish. With its crunchy cabbage, nutty almonds, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Oriental Cabbage Salad. It was during my trip to Japan many years ago. I had always been fascinated by the culture and cuisine of the Far East, so I jumped at the chance to explore Japan and learn more about their traditional dishes.

I was staying with a local family in a small village in the countryside, and one evening they invited me to join them for a traditional Japanese dinner. As we sat down at the low table, I was struck by the array of colorful dishes laid out before us. The aromas of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

The mother of the family, Mrs. Tanaka, was a skilled cook and she had prepared a feast for us that evening. As I sampled each dish, I was blown away by the flavors and textures that seemed to dance on my palate. But it was the Oriental Cabbage Salad that truly captured my heart.

The salad was a vibrant mix of crunchy cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, tossed in a tangy dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. The flavors were bold and bright, with a hint of sweetness that balanced out the savory elements perfectly. I couldn't get enough of it.

After dinner, I asked Mrs. Tanaka for the recipe, eager to recreate the dish when I returned home. She smiled warmly and invited me into her kitchen to show me how to make it. As we worked side by side, she shared with me the secrets of her family's recipe, passed down through generations.

I learned that the key to the salad's success was in the preparation of the vegetables. Mrs. Tanaka showed me how to julienne the cabbage and carrots into thin strips, creating a delicate texture that would hold up well to the bold flavors of the dressing. She also taught me the importance of marinating the vegetables in the dressing for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop.

As we finished making the salad, Mrs. Tanaka handed me a bowl to taste. I closed my eyes as I took my first bite, savoring the crunch of the cabbage, the sweetness of the carrots, and the tang of the dressing. It was like a burst of sunshine in my mouth, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Since that day in Japan, Oriental Cabbage Salad has become a staple in my kitchen. I have made it for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, and it is always a hit with everyone who tries it. I have shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, passing on the tradition that Mrs. Tanaka so generously shared with me.

Every time I make Oriental Cabbage Salad, I think back to that magical evening in Japan, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the Tanaka family. I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned from such a talented cook and to have experienced the flavors of a culture halfway around the world.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Oriental Cabbage Salad, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the memories and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. And I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, no matter where they come from.

Categories

| Almond Recipes | Cabbage Salad Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Chinese Recipes | Ramen Recipes |

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