Taoist Sai Oua - Herbal Sausage

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional pork used in Sai Oua is replaced with plant-based ingredients to align with the Taoist diet. The recipe focuses on using fresh herbs and spices to create a harmonious flavor profile, while omitting ingredients such as garlic and onions, which are avoided in the Taoist diet. We alse have the original recipe for Sai oua, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) cooked quinoa 1 cup (240ml) cooked quinoa
• 1 cup (240ml) cooked chickpeas, mashed 1 cup (240ml) cooked chickpeas, mashed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) finely chopped mushrooms 1/2 cup (120ml) finely chopped mushrooms
• 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped lemongrass 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped lemongrass
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) finely chopped galangal 2 tablespoons (30ml) finely chopped galangal
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) finely chopped kaffir lime leaves 2 tablespoons (30ml) finely chopped kaffir lime leaves
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) coconut oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground coriander 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) ground white pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) ground white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) chili flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) chili flakes (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mashed chickpeas, chopped mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, soy sauce, coconut oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground white pepper, salt, ground turmeric, and chili flakes (if desired).
2. 2.
   Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a sausage-like form. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of coconut oil.
5. 5.
   Place the sausages in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Quinoa — Ensure the quinoa is cooked and cooled before using it in the recipe.
• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers of the lemongrass stalk before finely chopping it.
• Galangal — Peel the galangal root before finely chopping it.
• Kaffir lime leaves — Remove the central vein of the kaffir lime leaves before finely chopping them.
• Mushrooms — Finely chop the mushrooms to ensure they blend well with the other ingredients.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the Taoist Sai Oua with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• These sausages can be grilled or baked in the oven for a different cooking method.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
• Leftover sausages can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2-3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Taoist Sai Oua as a main course alongside steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or Thai basil, for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Taoist Sai Oua on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a visually appealing and balanced presentation.