Gỏi Chả Lụa, or Vietnamese Ham Salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that's particularly popular during Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Its delicate balance of sweet, savory, and slightly sour flavors makes it a captivating addition to any celebratory spread, or a delightful light lunch any time of year. The star of the show is the chả lụa, a smooth and subtly sweet Vietnamese pork sausage, but the real magic lies in the interplay of textures and tastes achieved through the addition of crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. This isn't your average ham salad; it's a culinary adventure bursting with the authentic flavors of Vietnam.
This recipe unveils the secrets to creating a truly authentic and delicious Gỏi Chả Lụa, perfect for your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of the perfect dressing, we'll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a mouthwatering result that will leave you craving more. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Knife (including wavy knife)
- Plate
- Bowl
- Pan
- Blender (optional)
Ingredients
- Ham: 500g
- Carrots: 800g
- Cucumber: 500g
- Green Mango: 200g
- Garlic: 100g
- Chili Peppers: 100g
- Sugar: 200g
- Fish Sauce: 100g
- Tamarind Juice: 50ml
- Vietnamese Coriander
- Basil
- Fried Onions
- Roasted Peanuts
- Shrimp Chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the ham into 0.5cm thick slices. Remove the rind using a knife.
- Cut the carrots into moderate-length strips.
- Marinate the carrots with 2 tablespoons of sugar for 15-20 minutes to make them crispier and reduce the pungent smell.
- cut them in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and slice into even pieces.
- Cut the green mango into thin slices, similar to the carrots and cucumbers. Choose firm, crunchy mangoes.
- Finely chop or blend the garlic and chili peppers.
Step 2. Make the Dressing
- Cook 100g sugar and 100g fish sauce in a pan over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely.
- Combine the cooled fish sauce mixture with the blended garlic and chili, and tamarind juice. Mix well.
Step 3. Combine and Dress the Salad
- Combine the ham, carrots, cucumbers, green mango, and herbs in a large bowl. Add half of the salad dressing and mix gently.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately, garnished with fried onions, roasted peanuts (optional), and shrimp chips.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Invest in a wavy knife for a nicer look when slicing ham and vegetables.
- Don't cut the cucumbers too thinly; aim for a moderate thickness for a better texture.
- Using a blender for the garlic and chili will speed up the preparation process.
- Mix and serve the salad immediately to maintain its crispness and prevent the vegetables from wilting.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make Gỏi Chả Lụa ahead of time?
Yes! It's best to assemble it a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, avoid adding the herbs until just before serving to maintain freshness.
2. Where can I buy chả lụa?
Chả lụa is usually available at Asian grocery stores. You can also find it online from Vietnamese specialty shops.
3. What can I substitute for chả lụa if I can't find it?
While nothing replicates chả lụa perfectly, cooked and thinly sliced ham or even a good quality bologna could be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
This Gỏi Chả Lụa recipe offers a refreshing and flavorful twist on a classic salad, perfect for any occasion, especially the vibrant celebrations of Tết. The combination of textures and tastes is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delightful taste of Vietnam!