Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe - A Flavorful Dressing from Asia

Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette

Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe - A Flavorful Dressing from Asia
Region / culture: Asia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette
Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette

Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette is a flavorful and zesty dressing that adds a burst of tangy and spicy flavors to any salad. This versatile vinaigrette can also be used as a marinade for meats or drizzled over grilled vegetables for an extra kick of flavor.

History

The origins of this recipe can be traced back to Asian cuisine, where the combination of citrus fruits, soy sauce, and spicy chilies is a common flavor profile. This vinaigrette is a fusion of traditional Asian ingredients with a modern twist, creating a unique and delicious dressing that is perfect for salads and other dishes.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, water, lime juice, orange juice, grapefruit juice, ginger, garlic, chili paste, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to use as a dressing for your preferred salad.

Variations

  • Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
  • Substitute lemon or grapefruit juice for the lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
  • Add a tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chile paste used in the recipe.

- Use fresh citrus juices for the best flavor, but bottled juices can also be used in a pinch.

- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette over a mixed green salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious and healthy meal. It can also be used as a marinade for meats or a dipping sauce for spring rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Blend all the ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth to create a creamy and well-emulsified vinaigrette.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Use lemon or grapefruit juice instead of lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

- Substitute fresh parsley or mint for cilantro if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette in a small pitcher or jar for a beautiful presentation at the table. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving for a fresh and vibrant dish.

Pairing Recommendations

This vinaigrette pairs well with Asian-inspired salads, grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. It also complements dishes with bold flavors like ginger, garlic, and chilies.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before using, and give it a good shake or stir to re-emulsify.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette contains approximately 30 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The vinaigrette contains minimal fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is less than 1 gram of protein in each serving of the vinaigrette.

Vitamins and minerals

This vinaigrette is rich in vitamin C from the citrus juices and cilantro, providing a boost of antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. It is important to use gluten-free soy sauce if you have a gluten intolerance or allergy.

Summary

Overall, this vinaigrette is a low-calorie, low-fat dressing that is packed with flavor and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette is a versatile and flavorful dressing that adds a zesty kick to salads, meats, and vegetables. With a blend of citrus juices, soy sauce, and spicy chilies, this vinaigrette is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the ways of the kitchen from my own beloved grandmother. She was a masterful cook, creating dishes that were both comforting and delicious. One day, as I watched her prepare a special meal for a family gathering, she pulled out a small, worn notebook from her apron pocket.

"Ah, here it is," she said with a smile. "This is a recipe I learned from a dear friend many years ago. It's a Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette that will liven up any salad or grilled meat dish."

I watched with wide eyes as she gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together in a small bowl. The aroma that wafted up from the vinaigrette was intoxicating - a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and sweet. I couldn't wait to taste it.

As she spooned the vinaigrette over a bed of fresh greens and sliced cucumbers, I took my first bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each one distinct yet harmoniously blended together. It was a revelation, a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette, and she was more than happy to oblige. We spent countless hours in the kitchen together, experimenting with different proportions of ingredients and tweaking the recipe until it was just right.

Over the years, I have made this vinaigrette countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a recipe that I am proud to pass down to future generations.

The secret to the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette lies in the balance of flavors. The key ingredients are soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and of course, a generous squeeze of fresh citrus juice. The spicy kick comes from a dash of hot chili sauce, while a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, all of whom have been amazed by its bold and vibrant flavors. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that is often requested at gatherings and potlucks.

As I stand in my kitchen now, mixing together another batch of Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette, I am flooded with memories of my grandmother and the joy she brought to my life through her love of cooking. I can still hear her voice guiding me through the steps, her laughter ringing in my ears.

I am grateful for the gift she gave me, not just in the form of a recipe, but in the form of a passion for creating delicious food to share with those I love. And as I savor a spoonful of the vinaigrette, I am reminded of the power of a simple dish to bring people together and create lasting memories.

So here's to you, Grandma, and to the Spicy Asian Citrus Vinaigrette that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for passing down your culinary wisdom and for instilling in me a love of cooking that will never fade.

Categories

| Asian Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Ginger Recipes | Grapefruit Juice Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Rice Vinegar Recipes | Vinaigrette Recipes |

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