Venture beyond the familiar and discover a surprising culinary gem: the vibrant and delicious Mixed Pig Ear Salad, a testament to the innovative spirit of Vietnamese cuisine. This seemingly unconventional dish offers a delightful textural contrast and a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget preconceived notions – the pig ears, expertly prepared, boast a satisfying chewiness that complements the crisp vegetables and zesty dressing. The secret lies in the precise blanching technique that ensures tender, yet slightly firm, ears, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe unveils the secrets to creating a perfect Mixed Pig Ear Salad at home. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of the perfectly balanced dressing, we’ll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a stunning and flavorful result every time. Prepare to be amazed as we transform humble pig ears into a culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- knife
- bowl
- refrigerator
Ingredients
- Pig ears
- Salt
- Ginger
- Wine
- Rice powder
- MSG
- Water
- Fish sauce
- Garlic
- Chili
- Pepper
- Kumquat juice or lemon juice
- Green mango or star fruit
- Lemon leaves
- Basil or other herbs
- Chili sauce or sweet and sour sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pig Ears
- Wash the pig ears thoroughly. Cut salt, ginger, and wine and wash it very clean.
- Boil the pig ears, then cool them down in ice water or the refrigerator to make slicing easier.
- Slice the pig ears thinly into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Marinate and Season
- salt, MSG, water, fish sauce (use sparingly), garlic, chili, and pepper (optional).
- Add kumquat or lemon juice (remove seeds) for extra flavor.
- Mix the marinated pig ears with rice powder, layering and mixing gently so each layer absorbs the flavor.
Step 3. Add Optional Ingredients
- Optionally add green mango or star fruit slices and lemon leaves for extra crunch and aroma.
Step 4. Serve the Salad
- Serve the salad with raw vegetables wrapped in rice paper and your choice of dipping sauce (chili sauce or sweet and sour sauce).
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- The thinner the pig ear slices, the better, but not too thin.
- Don't add too much fish sauce, or it will make the dish watery.
- Don't mix too much rice powder at once; let it soak in before adding more.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Where can I find pig ears?
Most Asian grocery stores carry pig ears, often found in the fresh meat or offal section. Butchers may also be able to source them for you.
2. How can I ensure the pig ears are crispy?
Proper blanching is key! Ensure the water is boiling before adding the ears and don't overcook them. The final frying or roasting step crisps them up perfectly.
3. Can I substitute ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preference and availability. The key is to maintain a balance of textures and flavors.
This Crispy Mixed Pig Ear Salad is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure showcasing the unexpected delights of Vietnamese cuisine. With its surprising textures and vibrant flavors, it's a dish guaranteed to impress your guests and expand your culinary horizons. So gather your ingredients and embark on this flavorful journey – you won't be disappointed!