Sichuan-style Spicy Caesar Salad

Recipe

Sichuan-style Spicy Caesar Salad

Fiery Fusion: Sichuan Caesar Salad with a Kick

4.5 out of 5

In the realm of Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and fiery spices, we present a unique twist on the classic Caesar Salad. This Sichuan-style Spicy Caesar Salad combines the traditional elements of a Caesar Salad with the vibrant and numbing flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Jan Dec
Salad› Caesar Salad
Cuisine of the Americas› American cuisine
Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine› Anhui cuisine› Sichuan cuisine

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

5 minutes

Total time

20 minutes

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan (if using vegan Parmesan cheese), Gluten-free (if using gluten-free croutons)

Allergens

Peanuts, Dairy (if using regular Parmesan cheese)

Not suitable for

Nut-free (due to the use of peanuts), Dairy-free (unless using vegan Parmesan cheese)

Ingredients

While the original Caesar Salad is known for its creamy dressing and subtle flavors, our Sichuan adaptation takes it up a notch with the addition of Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and other traditional Sichuan ingredients. The result is a salad that bursts with heat, tingles your senses, and adds a unique twist to the classic dish. We alse have the original recipe for Caesar Salad, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 / 1046
  • Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 4g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, Sichuan-style croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  2. 2.
    In a small skillet, heat the chili oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. 3.
    Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Then, stir in the soy sauce and rice vinegar.
  4. 4.
    Pour the Sichuan-style Caesar dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
  5. 5.
    Sprinkle the crushed roasted peanuts on top for an added crunch.
  6. 6.
    Serve immediately and enjoy the fiery fusion of flavors.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two until fragrant. Then grind them using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
  • Chili oil — You can adjust the spiciness of the salad by adding more or less chili oil according to your preference.
  • Sichuan-style croutons — Make your own croutons by tossing bite-sized bread cubes with a mixture of Sichuan peppercorn oil, chili oil, and salt. Bake in the oven until crispy.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of ground Sichuan peppercorns on top of the salad before serving.
  • If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.
  • To make it a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or tofu to the salad.
  • Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as baby spinach or kale, for added texture and flavor.
  • Serve the salad with a side of steamed rice to balance out the spiciness.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan-style Spicy Caesar Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. Garnish with a few whole Sichuan peppercorns and a drizzle of chili oil for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the torn romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl and sprinkle the crushed roasted peanuts on top. Drizzle the Sichuan-style Caesar dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.

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