Yin Ya Liang Ban

Yin Ya Liang Ban Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Hong Kong

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Yin Ya Liang Ban is a traditional Chinese cold dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This refreshing and flavorful dish is made with a combination of bean sprouts, peppers, Sichuan preserved vegetable, and curd cheese. The dish is then topped with a delicious sesame oil and sugar sauce, making it a perfect balance of flavors.

History

Yin Ya Liang Ban has been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in Sichuan province, known for its bold and spicy flavors. The dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish at family gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

300 g green bean sprouts
2 red peppers
1 green pepper
1 piece of dry bean curd
70 g Sichuan preserved vegetable
1 tbsp shredded ginger
1 tbsp minced parsley
3 pieces of white bean curd cheese

Sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp oil
2 tbsp cool boiled water
1 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

Remove the seeds from the green and red peppers, and shred them.
Shred the Sichuan preserved vegetable, soak it for 30 minutes, and then wipe it dry.
Wash the dry bean curd and shred it.
Boil water and parboil the green bean sprouts until they are soft. Then, drain and wipe them dry.
Put the shredded green and red peppers and dry bean curd into hot water.
Boil for 1 minute until the shredded ingredients are soft. Then, drain and wipe them dry.
Put the white bean curd cheese into a container, press it, and make a paste.
Add the sauce to the bean curd cheese paste, and stir and mix well.
Put the green bean sprouts and shredded ingredients into the container, and mix well.
Add the bean curd cheese sauce, and stir well to mix. Serve it cool.

Variations

Add diced tofu or chicken for extra protein.
Substitute the peppers with cucumbers or carrots for a different flavor profile.
Use a different type of preserved vegetable for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the Sichuan preserved vegetable for at least 30 minutes to remove excess saltiness.

- Be sure to drain and wipe dry the shredded ingredients to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Press the white bean curd cheese to create a smooth paste for the sauce.

- Serve the dish cold for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Yin Ya Liang Ban can be served as a side dish or appetizer alongside other Chinese dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, rice, or noodles. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Cooking Techniques

Parboil the bean sprouts to soften them before mixing with the other ingredients.

- Shred the vegetables thinly for a more delicate texture.

- Mix the sauce separately before adding it to the dish for even distribution.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular tofu instead of curd cheese.

- Substitute the Sichuan preserved vegetable with kimchi or pickled vegetables.

- Use honey or agave nectar instead of sugar in the sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

Yin Ya Liang Ban can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Yin Ya Liang Ban in a decorative bowl or plate garnished with fresh parsley or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. You can also arrange the dish on a bed of lettuce or cabbage leaves for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Yin Ya Liang Ban pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or dumplings. It also goes well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Yin Ya Liang Ban in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for a few minutes until warmed through, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 120% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains soy and dairy

Summary

Yin Ya Liang Ban is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option for any meal.

Summary

Yin Ya Liang Ban is a delicious and nutritious Chinese cold dish that is perfect for summer. With its refreshing flavors and healthy ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your next meal. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. 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 pages and tattered cards, I stumbled upon a small, handwritten note tucked away in the corner. The note was written in delicate cursive, and the words were faded with age. It read: Yin Ya Liang Ban.

I had never heard of this dish before, but something about the name intrigued me. I could almost taste the flavors just by reading the words. I knew right then and there that I had to try to make it.

I set the note aside and began to gather the ingredients. The recipe called for fresh vegetables, tofu, and a special sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. I carefully measured out each ingredient, following the instructions on the note as closely as I could.

As I stirred the sauce together, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of soy and sesame. I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. I added the vegetables and tofu to the sauce, letting them simmer together until they were tender and infused with flavor.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly transported to another world. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – savory and sweet, with a hint of spice that lingered on my tongue.

I knew then that this recipe was something special, something worth sharing with others. I made a mental note to pass it down to my children and grandchildren, so that they too could experience the magic of Yin Ya Liang Ban.

As I savored the last bite of the dish, I thought back to the note that had led me to this culinary masterpiece. I wondered about the person who had written it, and how they had come to discover this recipe themselves. Perhaps they had traveled to far-off lands, or learned it from a wise old chef.

But in the end, it didn't matter where the recipe came from. What mattered was that it had found its way into my hands, and now into my heart. I knew that Yin Ya Liang Ban would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make for years to come.

And so, with a contented sigh, I cleared away the dishes and tucked the note back into the old recipe box. As I closed the lid, I felt a sense of gratitude for the serendipitous moment that had brought this recipe into my life. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best things come when we least expect them – like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.