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Cook the Book: Napa Cabbage and Red Onion Salad

Posted by Grace Kang, March 18, 2009 at 1:35 PM

When fresh greens aren't in season, this Napa cabbage and red onion salad is a perfect dish for some lightness and crunch. Served immediately or made ahead, it'll keep its flavor and texture. It's like coleslaw minus the mayo and plus extra crunch. The red onions and coriander leaves add some visual pop to the dish as well.

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Napa and Red Onion Salad

- serves 4 -
Adapted from Beyond the Great Wall by Jeffrey Alford and Naomi Duguid.

Ingredients

1 small or 1/2 medium large red onion (1/4 pound)
2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
2 teaspoons roasted sesame oil, or to taste
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon rice vinegar, or to taste
About 1/2 cup coriander leaves

Procedure

1. Slice the onion lengthwise into quarters, then very thinly slice each quarter lengthwise. You should have about 1 cup. Place in a sieve, add 1 teaspoon of the salt, and toss well. Set over a bowl and let stand for 10 minutes to drain.

2. Meanwhile, place the cabbage in a bowl and pour over boiling water to cover (about 4 cups). Let stand for a minute or two, then drain in a colander. Place back in the bowl and set aside.

3. Rinse the onion with cold water, then squeeze dry and add to the cabbage. Set aside.

4. Heat the 2 teaspoons sesame oil in a small wok or small skillet over medium heat. Add the ginger and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add the vinegar, and once it bubbles, pour the mixture over the salad. Toss to blend, then add the remaining teaspoon salt and toss again. The salad can be served immediately or left to stand for up to an hour so flavors can blend.

5. Just before serving, taste and add a little more sesame oil if you want to bring that flavor forward, as well as more salt if you wish. Add the coriander leaves and toss.

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Tags: Beyond the Great Wall, cabbage, Chinese, Jeffrey Alford, Naomi Duguid, red onions, salads