Gado gado is a popular Indonesian dish that has gained popularity all over the world. It is a delicious and nutritious salad made with a variety of vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors and nutrients. Here are some tips to make a perfect gado gado salad.
1. Choose fresh and seasonal vegetables
The key to a good gado gado salad is to use fresh and seasonal vegetables. The traditional gado gado salad uses a variety of vegetables like cabbage, bean sprouts, carrots, cucumber, and green beans. However, you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas to give it a twist. Make sure to wash and chop the vegetables properly before using them in the salad.
2. Blanch the vegetables
To make the vegetables tender and crunchy, it is important to blanch them. Blanching is a cooking technique in which vegetables are briefly boiled in hot water and then quickly transferred to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps to retain the vibrant colors and nutrients of the vegetables. Make sure not to overcook the vegetables, as they will become mushy.
3. Use tofu for protein
Gado gado salad is a complete meal in itself as it contains a good amount of protein from the vegetables. However, you can add tofu to make it even more nutritious. Tofu is a good source of plant-based protein and is also low in calories. You can use either soft or firm tofu in the salad, depending on your preference. It is recommended to pan-fry or grill the tofu before adding it to the salad to give it a crispy texture.
4. Prepare the peanut sauce from scratch
The peanut sauce is the heart and soul of gado gado salad. It is what gives the salad its unique flavor and makes it stand out from other salads. While you can purchase ready-made peanut sauce, it is always better to make it from scratch. Homemade peanut sauce is healthier and has a fresher taste. Plus, you can adjust the spice level and sweetness according to your taste.
5. Add some crunch with toppings
To add some texture and crunch to the salad, you can sprinkle it with toppings like fried shallots, crushed peanuts, or crispy fried onions. These toppings not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the salad. You can also add some crispy prawn crackers on the side for an extra crunch.
6. Serve with a side of rice
Traditionally, gado gado salad is served with a side of steamed white rice. The combination of the crunchy vegetables, protein-rich peanut sauce, and soft rice makes for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. However, you can also serve the salad with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier option.
In conclusion, gado gado salad is a nutritious and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. By following these tips, you can make a perfect gado gado salad at home. So next time you’re craving for a healthy and flavorful salad, try making gado gado and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills
