Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. fish paste
- 2 cucumbers, sliced thinly
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 2 tbsp. chopped cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish paste, sliced cucumbers, and sliced red onions. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Pour the dressing over the fish paste mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Add chopped cilantro and toss again.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fish paste can be substituted with crab meat or shrimp paste.
- Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Cilantro can be substituted with parsley or basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for additional crunch and color.
- Use lime juice instead of vinegar for a more citrusy flavor.
- Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers thinly and evenly.
- Make sure to mix the dressing well to ensure that the sugar has dissolved.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers 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 additional cilantro or sliced green onions.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro or green onions
Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables or a light soup
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too salty, add a bit more sugar and vinegar to balance out the flavors.
- If the salad is too sweet, add a bit more vinegar and salt.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
- Fish paste is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is sweet, sour, and savory, with a refreshing crunch from the cucumbers.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as a side dish to a main course.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Thai
Taste: Tangy, Salty, Refreshing, Savory