How to Make Vietnamese Lotus Stem Salad
Vietnamese Lotus Stem Salad, known as “Gỏi Ngó Sen,” is a delicious and refreshing dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This salad combines crunchy lotus stems with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Here’s how to make this delightful salad at home.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 200g lotus stems, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and basil)
- 100g cooked shrimp (optional)
- 50g roasted peanuts, crushed
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lotus Stems
Start by cleaning the lotus stems thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds or julienne. To prevent discoloration, soak the lotus stems in water with a bit of vinegar for about 10 minutes. After soaking, drain and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Julienne the carrots and cucumber, and rinse the bean sprouts in cold water. Set all prepared vegetables aside in separate bowls to keep them fresh and crisp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp (if using)
If you are adding shrimp, boil or steam them until they are completely cooked, then slice them into smaller pieces.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped chili. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved, creating a tangy and spicy dressing.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lotus stems, carrots, cucumber, bean sprouts, and shrimp (if using). Add the fresh herbs and toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Add the Dressing
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss again to ensure everything is well-coated. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Top with crushed roasted peanuts for added crunch. Consider garnishing with extra herbs or red chili slices for visual appeal.
Enjoy Your Vietnamese Lotus Stem Salad!
This light and healthy Vietnamese Lotus Stem Salad is perfect as a side dish or a main course. It showcases the harmonious blend of flavors and textures typical of Vietnamese cuisine. Serve it fresh and enjoy the burst of freshness with every bite!
Feel free to customize your salad by adding other ingredients such as tofu, grilled chicken, or even mango for a twist. Bon appétit!