Napa Chive Salad: A Nostalgic Mom’s Recipe
Napa Chive Salad: A Nostalgic Mom’s Recipe
A Delicious and Refreshing Napa Chive Salad Using Fresh Chives
This is a side dish my mom used to make often when I was little, using napa chives! The added sweetness of the chives makes it a side dish that rivals any other. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients- 1 bunch Napa chives (approx. 100-150g)
- 1 Tbsp coarse salt (for blanching chives)
- 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce (or anchovy sauce)
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (Korean traditional soy sauce)
- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for a nutty aroma!)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the napa chives by trimming and washing them thoroughly. It’s important to wash them carefully under running water, including the roots, to remove any dirt or debris. If the chives are large, you can also cut them in half.
Step 2
Bring 1 liter of water to a rolling boil in a pot, and add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt. Once boiling, carefully add the prepared napa chives and blanch them for a short time, about 20-30 seconds. As soon as they turn a vibrant green, immediately remove them and rinse them under cold running water. This step helps to maintain the crisp texture of the chives.
Step 3
After rinsing in cold water, gently squeeze out the excess moisture from the blanched chives. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can affect the fresh flavor. Place the squeezed chives on a plate and gently loosen them by hand, so they are ready to absorb the seasoning evenly. (Tip: If you prefer to enjoy the chives without seasoning, simply rinse the blanched chives, drain them, and dip them in a red chili paste dipping sauce (cho-gochujang). This ‘blanched chive’ preparation is also a unique delicacy!)
Step 4
In the bowl with the loosened chives, add 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce for soup, and 1/2 tablespoon of red pepper flakes. Then, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for that nutty aroma and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. Gently mix and toss everything together with your hands until well combined. It’s important to mix gently so that all the seasonings evenly coat the chives. Instead of seasoning heavily from the start, taste as you go and adjust the seasoning according to the amount of chives you are using. Even if you’re making a large batch, tasting and adjusting will help you achieve a perfectly seasoned and delicious napa chive salad.
