Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large daikon radish (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced carrot
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions
Special equipment needed:
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
- Large bowl
- Glass jar with lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Peel the daikon radish and slice it thinly using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife.
2. Place the sliced daikon in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to combine and let sit for 30 minutes.
3. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Rinse the daikon slices under cold water and squeeze out any excess moisture.
5. Add the daikon slices, sliced carrot, and scallions to the saucepan with the vinegar mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar with a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
N/A
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1/4 cup):
Calories: 35
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 135mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Daikon radish: can be substituted with turnip or cucumber
- Rice vinegar: can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- Soy sauce: can be substituted with tamari or coconut aminos
- Red pepper flakes: can be substituted with cayenne pepper or chili powder
- Carrot: can be substituted with red bell pepper or jicama
- Scallions: can be substituted with red onion or shallots
Variations:
- Add sliced jalapeno for a spicy kick
- Use a mix of different colored carrots for a colorful presentation
- Add sliced garlic for extra flavor
- Use honey instead of sugar for a sweeter taste
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer for even and thin slices
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the daikon slices to prevent the pickles from becoming too watery
- Let the pickles sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together
Storage instructions:
Store the pickled daikon in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
N/A
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pickled daikon as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches, tacos, or rice bowls.
Garnishes:
Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Pairings:
Pair with grilled meats or fish, sushi, or Asian-inspired salads.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with steamed rice, miso soup, or stir-fried vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pickles become too watery, drain off some of the liquid before serving.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a clean and sterilized glass jar for storing the pickles. Keep refrigerated and discard if any signs of spoilage occur.
Food history:
Namasu is a traditional Japanese dish that is typically served during the New Year's holiday. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
Flavor profiles:
The pickled daikon has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor with a crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the pickled daikon as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches, tacos, or rice bowls.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Japanese
Taste: Tangy, Sour, Sweet, Refreshing