cold chrysanthemum

How to Make Cold Toss Crown Daisy: A Simple Guide

Cold toss crown daisy (凉拌茼蒿) is a refreshing, nutrient-packed Chinese dish that highlights the vegetable’s unique, slightly peppery flavor. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to try at home.

Ingredients:

500g fresh crown daisy, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp vinegar, ½ tsp sugar, a pinch of salt, and optional chili flakes or toasted sesame seeds.

Steps:

1. Prepare the greens: Trim the roots of crown daisy and soak in salt water for 10 minutes to remove dirt. Rinse thoroughly and drain. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to ice water to retain crispness. Squeeze out excess water and cut into 5cm segments.

2. Make the dressing: In a bowl, mix minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves. For extra heat, add chili flakes.

3. Combine and serve: Toss the blanched crown daisy with the dressing evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and chill for 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

This dish is quick, healthy, and pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. Feel free to adjust ingredients—like adding peanuts or a dash of sesame paste—to suit your taste! Enjoy this light, flavorful twist on a classic green.