Aromatic Ginseng Root Salad (Altoran Style)
Altoran Ginseng Salad, Recipe Using Ginseng Roots, Spring Delicacy Side Dish
Introducing the Altoran Ginseng Root Salad, a recipe capturing the freshness of spring using precious ginseng roots. The harmony of the sweet and spicy dressing with the crisp ginseng is exceptional, and the pine nuts as a garnish add a touch of luxury. This recipe is perfect for a special home-cooked meal, offering both health benefits and delicious flavor.
Main Ingredients- 5 ginseng roots (using the smaller roots)
- 5 dried jujubes (dates)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the precious ginseng roots, heralding the arrival of spring. Craft this dish with care using fresh ginseng roots received from a neighbor. (Ingredient Tip: These ginseng roots were received in exchange for spring greens, making them extra fresh.)
Step 2
Gently rinse the ginseng roots under running water for about 5 minutes, just enough to remove the soil, then rinse them thoroughly several times. Drain them completely to remove excess water. It’s important not to wash them for too long to preserve their beneficial properties.
Step 3
Soak the dried jujubes in lukewarm water for about 5 minutes. This step helps to clean out any impurities hidden in the wrinkles of the jujubes. After soaking, rinse them several times under running water and drain.
Step 4
Jujubes play a key role in softening the slightly bitter taste of ginseng. First, remove the seeds from the jujubes by peeling around them, then thinly julienne them.
Step 5
To prevent the ginseng roots and jujubes from breaking apart during mixing, julienne them into moderately thick strips rather than very thin ones. Maintaining the texture of the prepared ingredients is important.
Step 6
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons each of plum extract and gochujang. Add 1 tablespoon each of vinegar, gochugaru, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds to create the delicious dressing. (Avoid adding honey, as it can interfere with the natural ginseng aroma.) For a purer ginseng flavor, refrain from using strong aromatics like garlic or ginger. The sweetness from the gochujang balances the ginseng’s bitterness, the vinegar further mellows the slight bitterness, and the gochugaru adds a vibrant color.
Step 7
Place the prepared ginseng roots and julienned jujubes into a large bowl. Add about two-thirds of the prepared dressing and mix gently until the dressing is evenly distributed. (Tip: It’s best to add the dressing gradually while tasting, rather than all at once.)
Step 8
Crush the pine nuts lightly or use whole ones, then sprinkle them over the finished ginseng salad as a garnish. The nuttiness of the pine nuts will enhance the overall flavor.
Step 9
Your Altoran Ginseng Root Salad is now ready! The pine nut garnish not only looks appealing but also adds a richer flavor. Create a healthy and delicious meal with this sweet and spicy ginseng root salad that will awaken your appetite. If there’s any remaining dressing, add a little more to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
