Chifa-style Spicy Bean Sprout Salad

Ingredients

In this Chifa-style adaptation, we incorporate Peruvian flavors by adding aji amarillo paste, a popular ingredient in Peruvian cuisine known for its vibrant yellow color and mild heat. The dressing also includes lime juice, which adds a refreshing citrusy note to the dish. Additionally, we garnish the salad with cilantro, a herb commonly used in Peruvian cooking, to enhance the overall flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Kongnamul muchim, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) bean sprouts 500g (1.1 lb) bean sprouts
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Blanch the bean sprouts in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, lime juice, aji amarillo paste, minced garlic, sesame oil, vegetable oil, sugar, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. 3.
   Add the blanched bean sprouts to the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Before serving, garnish the salad with fresh cilantro leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bean sprouts — Make sure to blanch the bean sprouts briefly to retain their crunchiness while removing any potential bacteria.
• Aji amarillo paste — Adjust the amount of aji amarillo paste according to your desired level of spiciness. Add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a small amount of grated ginger to the dressing.
• If you can't find aji amarillo paste, you can substitute it with a combination of yellow bell pepper and a small amount of chili paste.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more soy sauce, lime juice, or salt if desired.
• Serve the salad chilled for maximum freshness and crunchiness.
• This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, adding a refreshing and spicy element to the meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Chifa-style Spicy Bean Sprout Salad as a side dish alongside your favorite Chifa-inspired main course. It can also be enjoyed as a light and refreshing meal on its own.

Presentation advice

Present the salad in a vibrant bowl or plate to showcase the colorful bean sprouts and garnish with a few fresh cilantro leaves on top. The contrasting colors will make the dish visually appealing.