Taoist Asinan

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the traditional Indonesian Asinan, we have made a few modifications to align it with the principles of the Taoist diet. We have replaced certain ingredients to ensure they are suitable for a Taoist diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods and avoids meat, dairy, and strong spices. Additionally, we have adjusted the flavors and seasonings to create a more balanced and harmonious taste. We alse have the original recipe for Asinan, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) jicama, julienned 2 cups (300g) jicama, julienned
• 2 cups (300g) cucumber, julienned 2 cups (300g) cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup (150g) carrot, julienned 1 cup (150g) carrot, julienned
• 1 cup (150g) pineapple, thinly sliced 1 cup (150g) pineapple, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (150g) green apple, thinly sliced 1 cup (150g) green apple, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (150g) red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 cup (150g) red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (150g) purple cabbage, thinly sliced 1 cup (150g) purple cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts
• 1 cup (150g) mung bean noodles, cooked and cooled 1 cup (150g) mung bean noodles, cooked and cooled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) light soy sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) agave syrup or honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) agave syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon (5g) grated ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) white pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) sea salt 1/4 teaspoon (1g) sea salt
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 12g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the jicama, cucumber, carrot, pineapple, green apple, red bell pepper, purple cabbage, bean sprouts, and mung bean noodles.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, light soy sauce, agave syrup or honey, grated ginger, white pepper, and sea salt until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the vegetable and fruit mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. 4.
   Allow the Taoist Asinan to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Jicama — Peel the jicama before julienning it to remove the tough outer layer.
• Mung bean noodles — Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them with cold water to cool them down before adding them to the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a small amount of finely chopped chili pepper to the dressing.
• Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences and seasonal availability.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing by adding more or less agave syrup or lime juice, according to your taste.
• To enhance the presentation, serve the Taoist Asinan in individual lettuce cups or on a bed of fresh salad greens.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve Taoist Asinan as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside a Taoist-inspired main course. It pairs well with steamed tofu, brown rice, or stir-fried vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful julienned vegetables and fruits in an aesthetically pleasing manner on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of green color.