Tianjin Caviar

Ingredients

Tianjin Caviar differs from the original Texas Caviar in terms of ingredients and flavor profile. While Texas Caviar typically includes black-eyed peas, corn, and tomatoes, Tianjin Caviar incorporates soybeans, mung beans, and traditional Tianjin vegetables. The dressing in Tianjin Caviar is also influenced by Tianjin cuisine, with the addition of soy sauce and sesame oil, which adds a distinct umami flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Texas Caviar, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) cooked soybeans 1 cup (200g) cooked soybeans
• 1 cup (200g) cooked mung beans 1 cup (200g) cooked mung beans
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 7g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked soybeans, mung beans, cucumber, bell peppers, radishes, and green onions.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. 4.
   Allow the Tianjin Caviar to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Soybeans — If using dried soybeans, soak them overnight before cooking to ensure they are tender.
• Mung beans — Cook the mung beans until they are soft but still hold their shape. Overcooking can result in mushy beans.
• Rice vinegar — Use a mild rice vinegar for a balanced flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with white wine vinegar.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
• Customize the Tianjin Caviar by adding other Tianjin vegetables like Tianjin preserved cabbage or Tianjin radish.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more soy sauce or vinegar if desired.
• Make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for a quick and healthy snack or side dish.
• Serve Tianjin Caviar with crispy sesame crackers or alongside steamed dumplings for a complete Tianjin-inspired meal.

Serving advice

Tianjin Caviar is best served chilled. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.

Presentation advice

Present Tianjin Caviar in a vibrant salad bowl or on a large platter to showcase the colorful ingredients. Arrange the sliced radishes and green onions on top for an attractive presentation. Serve with small individual plates or bowls for easy serving.