cold cabbage recipe

A Guide to Making Chinese Cold Cabbage Salad

Cold cabbage salad, or *liang ban bai cai*, is a refreshing, versatile Chinese dish loved for its crunch and zesty flavors. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

- 1/2 medium cabbage (about 300g), thinly sliced

- 1 carrot, julienned

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp rice vinegar

- 1 tsp sesame oil

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1/2 tsp chili oil (optional, for heat)

- Fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for garnish.

Steps:

1. Prepare the cabbage: Soak sliced cabbage and carrot in cold water for 10 minutes to make them crisp. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.

2. Make the dressing: Whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil (if using) in a bowl until the sugar dissolves.

3. Combine: Toss the cabbage, carrot, and dressing in a large bowl. Ensure every piece is coated evenly.

4. Marinate: Let the salad sit for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. For extra crunch, serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

5. Garnish: Sprinkle with cilantro or sesame seeds before serving.

Variations: Add sliced cucumber for extra freshness, or a teaspoon of peanut butter for creaminess. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or rice, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. Enjoy!