Goi Ngo Sen, also known as Lotus Stem Salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish from Vietnam, celebrated for its unique flavors and health benefits. This delightful salad combines crunchy lotus stems with fresh herbs, vegetables, and often a protein source, such as shrimp or tofu, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Its popularity stems from both its delicious taste and its visual appeal, making it a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, especially during family gatherings and special occasions. According to culinary experts,
“Goi Ngo Sen is a perfect representation of Vietnamese cooking, balancing flavors and textures while emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.”
Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal, Goi Ngo Sen is cherished by food enthusiasts for its nutritional value and cultural significance.
Goi Ngo Sen: A Delicious Lotus Stem Salad
Goi Ngo Sen is a traditional Vietnamese salad that showcases the delicate flavors and textures of its ingredients. This refreshing dish features crunchy lotus stems, fresh herbs, and a mix of proteins, often served with a tangy dressing. It is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice in Vietnamese cuisine. Historically, this dish has been enjoyed in various regions of Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong Delta, where lotus flowers are abundantly found.
Preparation
To prepare Goi Ngo Sen, you will need a selection of fresh ingredients and a few simple steps to create this vibrant salad. Below is a detailed list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Lotus stems | 200 grams (peeled and sliced thinly) |
| Carrot | 1 medium (julienned) |
| Cucumber | 1 medium (julienned) |
| Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil) | 1 cup (mixed) |
| Shrimp (cooked and peeled) | 100 grams |
| Pork (cooked and sliced thinly) | 100 grams |
| Chili pepper | 1 (sliced thinly, optional) |
| Roasted peanuts | 2 tablespoons (crushed) |
| Fish sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Steps
- Prepare the Lotus Stems: In a pot of boiling water, add the sliced lotus stems. Blanch for about 2 minutes until tender, then drain and place in cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Mix the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched lotus stems, julienned carrot, and cucumber. Toss well to evenly distribute.
- Add Proteins: Add the cooked shrimp and sliced pork to the vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything together to combine.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Adjust the taste to your liking, adding more sugar or lime juice if necessary.
- Add Herbs: Chop the fresh herbs and sprinkle them over the salad mixture.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced chili pepper and crushed roasted peanuts on top.
- Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
With its unique combination of flavors and textures, Goi Ngo Sen is sure to impress anyone who tries it! This dish not only highlights the freshness of its ingredients but also carries with it the rich history of Vietnamese culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Goi Ngo Sen?
Goi Ngo Sen is a traditional Vietnamese salad made primarily from lotus stems, mixed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and often proteins like shrimp or pork.
What are the main ingredients in Goi Ngo Sen?
The key ingredients include lotus stems, carrots, cucumbers, fresh herbs (like mint and cilantro), and sometimes protein such as shrimp or chicken.
How is Goi Ngo Sen prepared?
The lotus stems are sliced thinly and blanched, then mixed with other chopped vegetables, herbs, and a dressing typically made of fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
Is Goi Ngo Sen healthy?
Yes, Goi Ngo Sen is generally considered healthy as it is low in calories and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs.
What does Goi Ngo Sen taste like?
It has a refreshing, crunchy texture with a balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors, often enhanced by fresh herbs.
Can Goi Ngo Sen be made vegetarian?
Absolutely, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and using tofu or additional vegetables instead.
What type of dressing is used in Goi Ngo Sen?
The dressing typically consists of a mix of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and sometimes chili for heat.
How do you serve Goi Ngo Sen?
Goi Ngo Sen is usually served cold as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, often garnished with peanuts or sesame seeds.
Where can I find Goi Ngo Sen?
You can find Goi Ngo Sen in many Vietnamese restaurants, especially those specializing in traditional dishes.
How long does Goi Ngo Sen last in the fridge?
Ideally, Goi Ngo Sen should be consumed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Is Goi Ngo Sen suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, Goi Ngo Sen can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the fish sauce and any other condiments used do not contain gluten.
Can I add other ingredients to Goi Ngo Sen?
Yes, feel free to customize it with additional ingredients like avocado, mango, or other seasonal vegetables.
What is the origin of Goi Ngo Sen?
Goi Ngo Sen originates from Vietnam, reflecting the country’s rich culinary traditions and use of fresh, local ingredients.
