15 Chinese Pickled Turnips Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 21, 2024
Chinese pickled turnips, also known as "mei cai" or "mei gan cai," are a common staple in Chinese cuisine. These turnips are pickled in a mixture of salt, spices, and sugar, giving them a unique tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Not only are they delicious, but they also have many health benefits, making them a popular choice for many Chinese households. In this article, we will share with you a traditional Chinese pickled turnips recipe that is easy to make and will elevate any meal.
Main Ingredients: Turnips, Olive Oil, White Bread, Onion, Gruyere Cheese
If you're looking to add a touch of elegance to your next dinner party, try this delicious turnip gratin recipe. Thinly sliced turnips are layered with cream, garlic, and thyme, then topped with a crispy breadcrumb and parmesan crust. It's the perfect side dish for any occasion.
Also known as lo bak goh, Chinese turnip cake is a traditional dish served during the Lunar New Year. It's made with shredded turnips, Chinese sausage, and dried shrimp, then steamed to perfection. The result is a savory and satisfying dish that's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
While turnips may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind when you think of Chinese cuisine, they are actually a popular ingredient in many Chinese dishes. In Chinese, they are known as luobo and are often used in soups, stir-fries, and pickled dishes. They have a mild and slightly sweet flavor, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
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Slow Cooker Chinese Pot Roast
Main Ingredients: Hoisin Sauce, Honey, Water, Ketchup, Soy Sauce, Asian
If you're a fan of pot roast, you have to try this Chinese-inspired version cooked in a slow cooker. Tender chunks of beef are simmered in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and five-spice powder. Add some carrots and turnips to the mix for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Chinese-Style Shredded Cold Vegetables and Tofu
Main Ingredients: Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce, Toasted Sesame Oil
For a refreshing and healthy side dish, try this Chinese-style shredded cold vegetables and tofu recipe. Thinly sliced cucumbers, carrots, and turnips are marinated in a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Topped with tofu and sesame seeds, it's a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Chinese Style Stuffed Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Fresh Mushrooms, Ground Pork, Turnip, Soy Sauce, Water
For a delicious appetizer or side dish, try these Chinese-style stuffed mushrooms. Button mushrooms are filled with a mixture of ground pork, green onions, and water chestnuts, then baked to perfection. They are a tasty and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests.
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Turnip Cakes
Main Ingredients: Turnips, Pork Belly, Chinese Sausages, Dried Shrimps
In addition to Chinese turnip cakes, there are many other variations of this dish in different Asian cuisines. In Japan, they are known as daikon mochi and are made with grated daikon radish and mochi rice cakes. In Korea, they are called saengchae tteok and are made with rice and vegetables. No matter what variation you try, they are all delicious and worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is a time for celebrating with family and friends and indulging in delicious food. In addition to turnip cakes, some other traditional dishes served during this holiday include jiaozi (dumplings), nian gao (sticky rice cake), and fish. Each dish has its own symbolic meaning and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year.
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Savory Chinese Turnip Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Chinese Sausage, Bacon, Dried Shrimp, Scallions, White
If you're a fan of savory pancakes, you have to try this Chinese turnip pancake recipe. Grated turnips are mixed with flour, eggs, and spices, then pan-fried until golden and crispy. Serve them with a soy sauce and vinegar dipping sauce for a tasty and unique breakfast or snack.
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Chinese Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Goh)
Main Ingredients: White Turnip, Rice Flour, Wheat Starch, Chinese
This classic Chinese turnip cake recipe is a must-try for any lover of Asian cuisine. It's made with shredded turnips, Chinese sausage, and mushrooms, then steamed and pan-fried to perfection. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's sure to become a regular in your household.
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Pickled Turnips
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Bay Leaf, White Vinegar, Turnips, Beet
If you're a fan of pickled vegetables, you have to try pickled turnips. Thinly sliced turnips are pickled in a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and spices, resulting in a tangy and crunchy side dish. They are a popular condiment in many Asian cuisines and a great addition to sandwiches or salads.
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Japanese pickled vegetables (tsukemono)
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Zucchinis, Turnips, White Miso Paste
Japanese pickled vegetables, or tsukemono, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are often served as a side dish or accompaniment to a meal and are believed to aid in digestion. In addition to pickled turnips, some other popular varieties include cucumbers, daikon, and eggplant.
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Easy Vegetable and Bean Soup
Main Ingredients: Large Carrots, Celery, Onions, Olive Oil, Medium
This hearty and nutritious vegetable and bean soup is the perfect meal for a cold winter day. It's made with turnips, carrots, tomatoes, and white beans, then seasoned with herbs and spices. It's a simple and delicious way to incorporate turnips into your diet.
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Turnip Cake/Radish Cake
Main Ingredients: White Turnip, Rice Flour, Wheat Starch, Chinese
In addition to Chinese turnip cake, there is also a variation made with radishes that is popular in Korean cuisine. Known as mu saengchae gyeongdan, this savory snack is made with grated radishes, rice, and sesame seeds, then pan-fried until crispy. It's a tasty and unique way to enjoy turnips.
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KETO BREAKFAST "POTATOES"
Main Ingredients: Turnip, Onion, Bacon, Olive Oil, Paprika, Green Onion
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, turnips are a great alternative to potatoes. They can be roasted or mashed to achieve a similar texture and taste, making them a perfect addition to a hearty breakfast. Try them in a hash or as a side dish for your next morning meal.
Orange chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, and for good reason. Tender chicken is coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce and served with steamed vegetables. For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding some diced turnips to the mix for added flavor and texture.
Another classic Chinese dish, beef and broccoli is a simple and delicious stir-fry that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. In addition to beef and broccoli, try adding some diced turnips to the mix for a tasty and nutritious addition.
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Lightly Pickled Turnip
Main Ingredients: Turnip, Yuzu, Kombu, Salt
For a lighter and less tangy version of pickled turnips, try this recipe for lightly pickled turnips. Slices of turnips are marinated in a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, resulting in a refreshing and crisp side dish. They are perfect for snacking or as a topping for sandwiches or tacos.
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Wild Pickled Turnips
Main Ingredients: Turnips, Beets, Water, Salt
If you're feeling adventurous, try making wild pickled turnips using foraged or homegrown ingredients. This recipe calls for turnips and wild onions to be pickled in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and spices. The result is a unique and flavorful condiment that will add a touch of wildness to any meal.
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Chinese Steamed Pumpkin Kuih
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin, Meat, Dried Prawns, Dried Shitake Mushrooms
Kuih, or traditional Chinese cakes, are a popular dessert or snack in many Asian countries. This steamed pumpkin kuih recipe is a healthier version of the traditional dish, using turnip instead of rice flour. It's a tasty and guilt-free treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Health Benefits of Chinese Pickled Turnips
Rich in Nutrients
Chinese pickled turnips are an excellent source of nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps boost immunity and fight off diseases. Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, while fiber is crucial for a healthy digestive system.
Improves Digestion
The fermentation process that pickled turnips undergo breaks down the fibers in the vegetables, making them easier to digest. This can help alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Additionally, the probiotics in pickled turnips can help promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut, improving overall digestive health.
Good for Weight Loss
Chinese pickled turnips are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent snack choice for those trying to lose weight. They also contain a compound called nitrate, which has been shown to help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
Making Your Own Chinese Pickled Turnips
Ingredients
1 large turnip, peeled and cut into thin strips
2 tablespoons salt
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
2 tablespoons chili flakes
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
Place the turnip strips in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, rice vinegar, and soy sauce.
Drain the excess liquid from the turnips and rinse them with cold water. Squeeze out any excess water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Place the turnip strips in a jar and pour the vinegar mixture over them. Make sure the turnips are fully submerged in the liquid.
Cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 days, or until the turnips reach your desired level of sourness. Remember to shake the jar every day to distribute the flavors.
Once ready, store the pickled turnips in the fridge.
Adding Chinese Pickled Turnips to Your Meals
Chinese pickled turnips can be enjoyed as a snack on their own, or added to a variety of dishes to add a tangy kick. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Add them to stir-fries for a burst of flavor.
Use them as a topping for salads or sandwiches.
Mix them into fried rice or noodles.
Pair them with meats such as pork or beef for a savory and tangy combination.
Overall, Chinese pickled turnips are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can elevate any dish. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the health benefits and unique flavors of this traditional Chinese staple.
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