grandma's cooking recipe

A Guide to Making Savory Grandmother's Pickled Vegetables

Grandmother's pickled vegetables, or "外婆菜," are a cherished Chinese delicacy, blending tangy, spicy, and umami flavors. This versatile dish, often served as a side or condiment, is easy to prepare with a few staple ingredients. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

500g dried vegetables (such as mustard greens, radish, or cabbage), 200g minced pork, 3-4 dried chili peppers, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp cooking oil, and a pinch of salt.

Steps:

1. Rehydrate the vegetables: Soak dried vegetables in warm water for 30 minutes until soft, then squeeze out excess water and chop into small pieces.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Stir-fry minced garlic and dried chilies until fragrant.

3. Cook the meat: Add minced pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.

4. Combine and simmer: Toss in the chopped vegetables, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy as a side with rice, porridge, or as a filling for sandwiches and dumplings. The longer it marinates, the richer the flavor—store in an airtight container for up to a week.

This humble dish embodies the warmth of home cooking, making every bite taste like a hug from Grandma.