Delicious Hanoi Vegan Turnip and Carrot Salad Recipe

The Hanoi vegan turnip and carrot salad is a refreshing, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish. With its naturally sweet and crunchy flavor and simple preparation, it’s an ideal choice for vegetarian days or light family meals. Let’s explore the detailed recipe to create an authentic Hanoi-style salad right at home!

Why is the vegan turnip and carrot salad loved?

More than just a regular dish, the vegan turnip and carrot salad embodies the culinary culture of Hanoi. Here are the reasons why this dish is a favorite among many:

• Fresh and light flavor: The combination of turnip, carrot, and fresh herbs provides a refreshing sensation, stimulating the taste buds without being overwhelming.
• Easy-to-find ingredients: All ingredients are common and readily available at local markets or supermarkets.
• Health benefits: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this salad supports digestion, is good for the heart, and suits those on a diet.
• Suitable for everyone: Being free of animal products, this dish meets the needs of vegetarians and those looking to try healthy meals.

Hanoi Vegan Turnip and Carrot Salad

Expert advice from Chef Minh Ha (An Lac Vegetarian Restaurant):
“To make the perfect salad, choose fresh turnips and carrots that are not bruised. Carrots should be bright orange, and turnips should be firm.”

Ingredients needed (for 4 servings)

• Turnip: 1 large (about 300g)
• Carrot: 1 medium (about 200g)
• Roasted peanuts: 50g
• Fresh herbs: Cilantro, perilla, Thai basil (to taste)
• Fresh chili: 1 (adjust to taste)
• Lime: 1
• Vegan fish sauce: 3 tablespoons (can be substituted with soy sauce)
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Ginger: 1 small piece

Detailed instructions for making vegan turnip and carrot salad

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

1. Turnip and carrot: Peel, wash, and shred into thin, even strips. Soak in ice water for about 10 minutes to maintain crunchiness.
2. Fresh herbs: Remove wilted leaves, wash, and finely chop.
3. Roasted peanuts: Crush lightly.
4. Garlic and chili: Mince finely.
5. Ginger: Peel and mince finely.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

1. Mix 3 tablespoons of vegan fish sauce (or soy sauce), 2 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sliced chili in a small bowl.
2. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness and sourness to your liking.

Step 3: Mix the salad

1. Place the prepared turnip and carrot in a large bowl.
2. Gradually pour the dressing into the bowl, and gently mix with your hands or chopsticks to ensure even coating.
3. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the turnip and carrot to soften slightly while retaining their crunch.

Step 4: Finish and serve

1. Before serving, add the chopped fresh herbs and crushed peanuts to the salad, and mix one last time.
2. Arrange the salad on a plate, and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs or crushed peanuts for added visual appeal.
3. Enjoy while it’s fresh and delicious!

Finished Vegan Turnip and Carrot Salad

Tip: To enhance the flavor, you can add some diced fried tofu or blanched wood ear mushrooms to the salad.

Secrets to keeping the salad crunchy and delicious

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh turnips and carrots will make the salad naturally sweet and crunchy.
• Shred into thin, even strips: The thinner the strips, the more appealing the salad.
• Mix the salad gently: Mix gently to avoid crushing the turnip and carrot.
• Serve immediately after mixing: The salad will lose its crunch and freshness if left for too long.

Expert advice from Chef Minh Ha (An Lac Vegetarian Restaurant):
“If you’re not eating it right away, you can store the salad in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 24 hours to ensure the best flavor.”

Variations to make the salad more diverse

You can completely customize the vegan turnip and carrot salad according to your personal taste:

• Add other vegetables: White cabbage, cucumber, or green beans are all great options.
• Use sesame dressing: Instead of vegan fish sauce, try sesame dressing for a unique flavor.
• Combine with fried tofu: Diced fried tofu will make the salad richer and more nutritious.

Conclusion

The Hanoi vegan turnip and carrot salad is not only delicious but also very healthy. With this simple recipe and helpful tips from “Sổ Tay Món Ăn,” you can easily make this salad at home. Share your results with us and don’t forget to follow our website for more exciting recipes!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Question: Can I omit the chili if I don’t like spicy food?
  Answer: You can omit the chili or reduce the amount according to your taste.
• Question: What can I use instead of vegan fish sauce?
  Answer: You can use soy sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Question: How can I prevent the turnip and carrot from being pungent?
  Answer: Soak the shredded turnip and carrot in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes.
• Question: What goes best with the vegan turnip and carrot salad?
  Answer: This salad pairs well with white rice, grilled rice paper, or vermicelli.
• Question: Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
  Answer: You can prepare the turnip, carrot, and dressing in advance, but mix the salad just before serving to maintain its crunch.
• Question: Is this salad suitable for people on a diet?
  Answer: Absolutely, as it is low in calories, high in fiber, and free of unhealthy fats.
• Question: How can I balance the sweet and sour taste in the salad?
  Answer: Adjust the ratio of sugar and lime juice in the dressing, taste, and adjust to your liking.