Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad
Introduction to Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan cuisine, one of the most famous among the eight major regional cuisines in China, is renowned for its bold flavors, particularly the pungency and spiciness. It utilizes plenty of garlic, chili peppers, and of course, the unique Sichuan peppercorn. This cuisine offers a balance of seven key flavors: spicy, aromatic, sweet, sour, bitter, smoky, and salty.
History of Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad
The Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad is a traditional dish that combines the refreshing crunch of fresh lotus roots with the deep, spicy flavors characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. This salad is believed to have originated from the Sichuan province, where lotus plants flourish in the waterways, providing an abundant supply of the crisp lotus root.
Over time, the simple combination of aromatic seasonings with lotus roots has delighted palates, offering a light yet flavorful appetizer or side dish. It is commonly prepared during the warmer months when the crispness of the lotus root provides a cooling contrast to the summer heat.
Ingredients
- Lotus Root - 2 medium-sized
- Chili Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Sichuan Peppercorn - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Soy Sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
- Green Onions - 2, finely chopped
- Coriander - a handful, chopped
- Salt - to taste
- Sugar - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Cleaning and Preparing the Lotus Root
The first step involves preparing the Lotus Root. Begin by washing the roots thoroughly to remove any dirt. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the outer layer of the Lotus Root, and slice it into thin, even slices. To maintain the crisp white color of the Lotus Root and prevent oxidization, immediately place the sliced pieces into a bowl of water with a splash of vinegar.
Infusing the Flavors
To create the dressing, combine Chili Oil, minced Garlic, Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Sesame Oil, Salt, and Sugar in a small bowl. Stir well to ensure the Salt and Sugar dissolve thoroughly.
Boiling the Lotus Root
In a pot of boiling water, cook the Lotus Root slices for 1-2 minutes until they are tender yet still retaining a good crunch. Drain them immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps achieve that perfect crispy texture that is essential for the salad.
Assembling the Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad
In a mixing bowl, add the cooled Lotus Root slices, pour over the dressing, and toss gently to coat each slice evenly. Add the chopped Green Onions and Coriander. Sprinkle with Sichuan Peppercorn for that authentic touch of numbing spice that Sichuan dishes are celebrated for.
For optimal taste, let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the Lotus Root to absorb the dressing fully.
Cooking Time
For precise cooking times, it is recommended to boil the Lotus Root only to the point where they turn semi-transparent and still hold their crunch, usually around 1-2 minutes.
How to Enjoy Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad
The Sichuan Fragrant Lotus Salad can be enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or a complementary side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be savored as a refreshing light lunch. The perfect balance of spices, tanginess, and cooling crunch makes it an ideal dish for balancing out richer and heavier mains.
Whether enjoying it on a warm summer day or as an accompaniment to an elaborate meal, this salad brings a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Serve it on a decorative platter, garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Let the fragrance of the dish transport you to the bustling streets of Sichuan, where the aroma of chilies and spices fills the air.