Goi Ngo Sen (Lotus Salad): A Delicious Taste of Vietnam
Welcome to the vibrant world of Vietnamese cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a refreshing dish called Goi Ngo Sen, or Lotus Salad. This delightful recipe celebrates the unique flavor of lotus root, a key ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes. With its crunchy texture and nutritional goodness, it’s no wonder this salad is popular in Vietnam and beyond!
The history of Goi Ngo Sen goes back centuries, often enjoyed during special occasions or served at family gatherings. Lotus has long been a symbol of purity and resilience in Vietnamese culture, making this dish not just delicious, but also rich in tradition. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a colorful side dish, Goi Ngo Sen is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lotus root | 200g, thinly sliced |
| Cabbage | 100g, shredded |
| Carrot | 1 medium, julienned |
| Asparagus | 50g, cut into pieces |
| Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro) | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Chili pepper (optional) | 1, sliced |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
Feel free to customize this recipe! If you can’t find lotus root, you can substitute it with jicama or radishes for a similar crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the lotus root: Start by washing and peeling the lotus root. Slice it thinly (about 1/8 inch). Soak the slices in water with a bit of lime juice to prevent browning.
- Blanch the asparagus: Boil a pot of water and cook the asparagus pieces for about 2 minutes until they are bright green. Drain and run under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine the vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the soaked lotus root, shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and blanched asparagus.
- Add herbs: Toss in the chopped mint and cilantro. If you like it spicy, add the sliced chili pepper!
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, and salt. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix everything gently to combine. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Enjoy your Goi Ngo Sen fresh as a light lunch or as an appetizer at dinner!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 6% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 24g | 8% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 15mg | 25% |
Tips and Tricks
- For added texture, consider adding roasted peanuts or sesame seeds on top.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness.
- Be mindful of the salt in the fish sauce to avoid over-salting your salad.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers!
FAQs
Can I make Goi Ngo Sen ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the vegetables and make the dressing ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Goi Ngo Sen?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues.
Is Goi Ngo Sen vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you substitute the fish sauce with a vegetarian sauce or soy sauce, Goi Ngo Sen can be made vegetarian-friendly!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, fresh salads are best enjoyed immediately!
Can I use frozen lotus root?
Frozen lotus root can be used, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor and crunch.
What is the best way to chop vegetables for the salad?
Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and try to keep your vegetable pieces uniform in size for even texture and presentation.
Is Goi Ngo Sen spicy?
The salad can be made spicy by adding chili pepper, but you can always leave it out for a milder flavor!
Can I add fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! Slices of mango or pineapple can add a sweet twist to the salad.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
From start to finish, Goi Ngo Sen takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and healthy option!
What is the origin of lotus as an ingredient?
Lotus has been used in Asian cuisine for centuries and is revered for its health benefits and unique flavor, making it a staple in dishes like Goi Ngo Sen.
Now that you know how to make this delightful Goi Ngo Sen, grab your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Vietnam at home!
