Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 Chinese quince, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup of chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Chinese quince, cubed tofu, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds over the top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature.
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chinese quince can be substituted with regular quince or pear.
- Firm tofu can be substituted with tempeh or chicken breast.
- Red bell pepper can be substituted with any color bell pepper.
- Red onion can be substituted with shallots or green onions.
- Cilantro can be substituted with parsley or basil.
- Roasted peanuts can be substituted with cashews or almonds.
Variations:
- Add sliced cucumber or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
- Use a different type of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Top with sliced avocado for added creaminess.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to drain the tofu well before cubing it to prevent excess water in the salad.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice the Chinese quince and red onion.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown for extra flavor.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Roasted peanuts
- Sesame seeds
Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Steamed bok choy
- Stir-fried green beans
- Egg drop soup
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dressing is too salty, add a bit more honey or rice vinegar to balance it out.
- If the salad is too dry, add a bit more sesame oil or soy sauce to moisten it.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food History:
- Chinese quince, also known as Chinese hawthorn, is a fruit commonly used in Chinese cuisine for its tart flavor and medicinal properties.
Flavor Profiles:
- Tart, sweet, savory, nutty
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a light and refreshing lunch or dinner option.
Related Categories
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Region: Chinese