Houttuynia cordata, known as "zha’ergen" or "yu xing cao" in Chinese, is a beloved herb with a unique, pungent flavor. Here’s a simple guide to making its refreshing salad, a popular dish in Southwest China.
Ingredients: 200g fresh houttuynia cordata, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tbsp chili oil, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp vinegar, ½ tsp sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 tbsp crushed peanuts (optional).
Steps:
1. Prepare the herb: Wash houttuynia cordata thoroughly, trim the roots, and soak in salted water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness. Pat dry and cut into 3-4 cm segments.
2. Make the dressing: Mix minced garlic, chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Adjust flavors to balance sourness, spiciness, and saltiness.
3. Combine: Toss the houttuynia segments with the dressing evenly. Let marinate for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
4. Serve: Garnish with crushed peanuts for crunch. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Variations: Add shredded cucumber or tofu for extra texture. For a milder taste, blanch the herb briefly before mixing.
This salad highlights houttuynia’s distinct aroma, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish to awaken the senses!
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