Dish

Liang ban qie zi

Cold Eggplant Salad

To make liang ban qie zi, cucumbers are sliced thinly and marinated in a mixture of chili oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar for at least 30 minutes. The dish is typically served cold and can be garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions. Some variations of the dish include the addition of peanuts or sesame seeds, or the use of other vegetables such as carrots or radishes.

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Liang ban qie zi is a traditional dish from the Sichuan province of China. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and was originally a street food dish sold by vendors in the region.

Dietary considerations

Liang ban qie zi is suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it does not contain any meat or animal products. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free. However, some chili oils may contain traces of peanuts or other allergens, so it is important to check the label before using.

Variations

There are many variations of liang ban qie zi, some of which include the addition of peanuts or sesame seeds. Some recipes also call for the use of other types of vegetables such as carrots or radishes.

Presentation and garnishing

To ensure that the cucumbers are crisp and refreshing, it is important to slice them thinly and marinate them for at least 30 minutes before serving. The dish can be presented in a simple style, with the cucumbers arranged on a plate, or it can be garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor.

Tips & Tricks

When making liang ban qie zi, it is important to use a good quality chili oil for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili oil or use a milder variety. You can also adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.

Side-dishes

Liang ban qie zi can be served as a side dish or as a main course with rice. It pairs well with light beers or white wines such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio. Some traditional Chinese side dishes that go well with liang ban qie zi include stir-fried green beans or garlic bok choy.

Drink pairings

Liang ban qie zi pairs well with light beers or white wines such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, it also goes well with iced tea or lemonade.