Delicious Vietnamese Salad Recipe – Authentic Hanoi Style
Are you on the lookout for something fresh, aromatic and spicy to add some Asian flavor to your dinner table? Well then, I have the perfect recipe for you- Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe. This delightful dish is a burst of flavors that will tickle your taste buds and satisfy your cravings while also being super easy to prepare.
Originating from Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, this dish is a perfect representation of Vietnamese cuisine that artfully blends hot chilies, fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables and perfectly cooked meat. As a chef specializing in Vietnamese cuisine, I have spent years crafting this recipe to ensure that it stays true to its roots while still being accessible and delicious for home cooks like you.
This salad recipe is very versatile and can be adapted with different types of meat such as chicken or beef or even made vegetarian with tofu or extra vegetables. The addition of rice noodles gives it a unique texture and brings the dish together. Whether you are having a large dinner party or simply want something quick for lunch, Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad will always prove to be a hit.
So why not try something new and exciting? Follow me as I take you through this journey of creating a timeless classic- Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same boring salad? Look no further than Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe. This recipe will add a bold and flavorful twist to your typical salad.
First off, this salad is loaded with fresh herbs and veggies like lettuce, fresh bean sprouts, cucumber, carrots, and scallions that are both healthy and delicious. Plus, it includes boneless chicken breasts which makes it a complete meal.
Secondly, the combination of rice vermicelli noodles and chicken gives this salad recipe an authentic Vietnamese taste that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. And let’s not forget about the peanuts and hot chili peppers that add crunchiness and spice to this dish.
Thirdly, this Hanoi style recipe has a balance of sweet honey and tangy lime juice that adds depth of flavor to the dish. The lemongrass used in this recipe gives it an aromatic fragrance which will tempt those around you for a taste.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a great substitute option or variation in the recipe, there are plenty to choose from like prepared Vietnamese meatballs or even a vegetarian version of the salad. You can also adjust the spiciness level to your taste by adding more or less hot chili peppers or chili sauce.
Overall, Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe guarantees deliciousness and healthfulness in every bite. You won’t be disappointed with this refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional salads!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe:
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Boneless chicken breasts (8 ounces): This recipe features chicken as its protein source, but you could also use prepared Vietnamese meatballs (3) if you prefer a vegetarian option.
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Rice vermicelli noodles or bun noodles: The noodles are an important aspect of the salad, providing a base for the other ingredients. You can also use rice noodles or bun cha instead of vermicelli noodles.
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Lettuce leaves: Use lettuce leaves as the foundation of your salad.
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Fresh bean sprouts, cucumber, and carrot slices: These fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch and bring a balance to the dish.
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Lemongrass: A well-known herb in Asian cuisine that adds a refreshing citrusy flavor.
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Fresh herbs: A combination of several different fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint or basil will elevate this salad from being good to fantastic.
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Scallions: These green onions add a mild, onion-like flavor to the dish.
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Peanuts: Roasted peanuts add crunch, texture and flavor to this Vietnamese salad recipe.
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Hot chili peppers: Add just enough heat to complement the sweet honey and tangy lime juice.
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Fish sauce and lime juice: These two ingredients are amazing when paired together. The fish sauce gives it a signature umami taste while lime juice brings that zesty sourness that gives dishes their unique Vietnamese flavor profile.
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Chili sauce and honey dissolved in water (2 tablespoons each): Adding sweet and spicy flavors brings complexity to the dish.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get into the good stuff – how to make this amazing Vietnamese salad! Trust me, it is worth the effort. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful and refreshing salad that will wow your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice vermicelli noodles
- 8 oz boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 3 prepared Vietnamese meatballs, sliced thin
- 1 head lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 hot chili peppers, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
- ¼ cup roughly chopped peanuts
- A handful of fresh herbs (sawtooth herb is preferred)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, 3 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice. Set aside.
- Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken strips until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and let them cool down.
- Toss the lettuce, bean sprouts, cucumber, carrot, hot chili peppers and scallions together in a large bowl.
- Now add in the cooked rice vermicelli noodles to the bowl with vegetables.
- Coat the noodles and vegetables with the prepared vinaigrette dressing.
- Arrange everything on a plate or in a big serving bowl as desired.
- Top everything off with the cooked chicken strips, the sliced Vietnamese meatballs and a generous amount of freshly chopped peanuts on top for added texture.
- Add fresh herbs of your choice, such as sawtooth herb. Serve with extra lime wedges and drizzle with hot chili sauce if desired.
Cooking Tips
- You can serve this dish cold or at room temperature.
- If you have some extra time on your hands, consider making homemade Vietnamese meatballs instead of using store-bought ones. It will add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Be sure to taste and adjust the vinaigrette dressing to your preferences – some people prefer more sweetness while others prefer more sourness.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some spring rolls, bun bo or bun nem ran on the side for a complete Vietnamese meal experience.
Now that you know how to make a delicious Vietnamese salad Hanoi style, get ready for rave reviews from your family and friends!
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t be afraid to switch things up when making Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style recipe. There are many variations and substitutions that can be made to suit your tastes and dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Vegetarian Version: you can easily turn this recipe into a vegetarian delight by omitting chicken altogether or replacing the chicken breasts with tofu. You can also add grilled eggplant or mushrooms to get a meaty texture to the salad.
– Gluten-Free Version: replace the rice vermicelli noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free bean thread noodles. Check the label of the fish sauce and make sure it is gluten-free.
– Spicier Version: if you like things hot, add more hot chili peppers or chili sauce to this salad recipe. Adjust it to your desired heat level.
– Adding other fresh vegetables: You can add a variety of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, sugar snap peas, or shredded cabbage to enhance the salad’s flavors and textures.
– Meatball recipe: To give this dish another variation, substitute the chicken breasts with prepared Vietnamese meatballs.
Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect variation of the Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi style recipe. Be aware that some changes may alter the flavor profile considerably.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have made Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe, it’s time to serve and enjoy it! This salad is versatile and can be a meal on its own or served as a side dish to your favorite main course.
To make it a meal, you could serve it with some grilled chicken or shrimp. You could also pair it with some Vietnamese sides such as Bun Cha, Bun Nem Ran or Spring Rolls. The refreshing and light flavor of this salad is also perfect for pairing with heavier dishes like Bun Bo.
Because of its fresh and vibrant ingredients, this salad goes well with light-bodied wines or beers. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will complement the flavors of the salad nicely. A lager-style beer or a hoppy IPA will also balance out the sweetness of the honey and chili sauce in the dressing.
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can also pair this salad with iced tea or soda water mixed with lime juice for a refreshing twist.
Enjoy your Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe with your preferred pairing and let its delicious flavors take you on a culinary journey to Vietnam.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once prepared, Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to retain optimum freshness and texture, it is recommended that you store the salad and dressing separately in covered containers.
If you are planning to make this salad ahead of time, then you may consider storing the chicken separately from the rice vermicelli and vegetables. This will prevent moisture from wilting the vegetables and making the noodles soggy. For best results, lightly toss with the dressing just before serving.
When reheating the chicken, either on the stovetop or in a microwave oven, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over it to keep it moist while reheating. The moisture helps to keep the chicken from becoming too dry and stringy. Alternatively, you can also gently warm up the chicken breasts in steaming hot water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to your salad.
An important tip when reheating Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad is not to overheat it. Overheating can cause the lettuce leaves to wilt quickly, which can ruin both the appearance and texture of your dish. So, take care when reheating and adjust settings based on your particular kitchen appliance.
Whatever approach you choose for Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating this dish, always try to maintain as much freshness as possible. When storing leftovers, remember to tightly cover your containers so that your food stays at its best for as long as possible.
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe can seem daunting at first, but with some careful preparation and attention to detail, you will create a delicious dish that your family and friends will love. Here are some tips that I have gathered through my years of experience making this recipe:
1. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients
When preparing this salad, it is crucial to use fresh herbs and vegetables. If possible, buy organic produce from a local farmer’s market. These ingredients will have a richer flavor that will enhance the taste of the final dish.
2. Don’t overcook the chicken
Overcooked chicken will become rubbery and chewy, ruining the texture of the entire dish. To ensure moist chicken breasts, cook them over medium heat for about five minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Cook the rice noodles perfectly
To avoid mushy noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, immediately rinse them with cold water to prevent further cooking and stickiness.
4. Crush the lemongrass for maximum flavor
Lemongrass is a key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, adding a citrusy note that elevates the flavors in this salad. To release its full fragrance and flavors, crush it with the back of your knife before slicing it into thin pieces.
5. Serve cold
This salad is traditionally served cold, so make sure to chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. The cool temperature will highlight the freshness of the ingredients and make it even more refreshing.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create an authentic Vietnamese Salad that perfectly showcases Hanoi Style flavors.
FAQ
Before we conclude, let us take a moment to answer some frequently asked questions or concerns you may have about Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe. Understanding this recipe and its ingredients will help you determine what works best for your preferences and how to perfect your rendition of the dish. So, grab a pen and paper to note down some useful tidbits as we dive into these FAQ.
What is Hanoi style?
If you’re looking for a delectable and airy recipe, you should try preparing a delightful Vietnamese dish that features bun (rice noodles), cha (pork patties), and lean slices of pork shoulder. For an added burst of flavor, some amazing eateries include grilled shrimp in their recipe. Top it off with some crisp Vietnamese herbs and a tantalizing sweet chili sauce, and you’re in for an appetizing treat.
What are the benefits of Vietnamese salad?
In Vietnamese cuisine, salads and soups are packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh veggies, lean proteins, herbs, and spices. These dishes offer a healthy dose of vitamins A and E, known for their powerful antioxidant properties. Consuming these nutrients can help combat premature aging by fighting against harmful free radicals in the body.
How many calories are in a Vietnamese chicken salad?
This recipe yields a serving of Bluebag Vietnamese Chicken Salad that is both satisfying and nutritious. Each serving contains a total of 12 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of fat, and 25 grams of protein. Additionally, it comprises 344 calories, which makes it a great meal option for those who want to keep track of their calorie intake. Moreover, the dish only has 12 grams of net carbs, making it perfect for individuals who are monitoring their carb consumption.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style recipe is an exceptional dish that will satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and healthy salad. With fresh ingredients like lettuce, bean sprouts, and cucumbers combined with grilled chicken, rice noodles, and traditional Vietnamese flavors like lemongrass and fish sauce, this dish is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it is also versatile. You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding or substituting vegetables and protein depending on what you have on hand. Plus, the recipe includes helpful tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time.
What’s more, this recipe is a great way to incorporate more fresh vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a satisfying meal. Whether you are new to Vietnamese cuisine or an experienced cook looking for new recipes to try, Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad Hanoi Style Recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to give it a try today!
Lorie’s Vietnamese Salad, Hanoi Style Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces boneless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces prepared vietnemese meatballs
- 3 ounces rice vermicelli
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/3 cucumber, seeded and julienned
- 1 cup fresh bean sprout (optional)
- 1 head leaves lettuce
- 2 scallions, slivered
- 3 -4 small fresh hot chili peppers (bird chiles)
- 2 -3 tablespoons chopped peanuts
- 1/2 cup nuoc cham sauce
- 1/2 cup assorted fresh herb (basil, cilanto or mint)
To cook chicken
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3/4 cup water, divided
- 1/4 cup honey, divided
Instructions
- Cut chicken into small pieces.
- Flatten lemongrass with a ceaver and cut into 3 inch lengths.
- Heat oil in a large skillet, and add chicken and lemongrass.
- Cook until chicken is cooked through, then add meatballs, and 1/2 cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons honey.
- Cook, stirring, until water is absorbed and meat has browned.
- Add another 1/4 cup water mixed with 2 tbsp honey, and cook over high heat until mixture thickens into a sauce, then remove from heat.
- Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, then remove from heat.
- Add rice vermicelli to water in bundles, and submerge until noodles soften then drain noodles.
- NOTE: if you do noodles ahead and they clump just rinse under cool water and re-drain.
- Arrange lettuce onto serving plate and top with noodles bundles.
- Add alternating piles of meat, and vegetables.
- Top with fresh herbs, slivered scallions, chopped peanuts, and hot chiles.
- Drizzle with nuoc cham sauce and serve.