Cold Mixed Andrographis Paniculata

 Cold mixed andrographis paniculata is a classic refreshing Chinese cold dish.

 It is crisp, fresh and slightly bitter with a unique herbal flavor.

 Mixed with simple seasonings, it is appetizing, cool and nourishing, and is a popular summer healthy side dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

300g fresh andrographis paniculata

Aromatics

4 cloves garlic (minced)

A little chopped coriander

A few red chili rings (optional)

Seasonings

1.5 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon light soy sauce

Half teaspoon fine salt

1 teaspoon white granulated sugar

A pinch of chicken essence (optional)

A little sesame oil

A moderate amount of chili oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Clean the ingredients

   Pick off the old roots and yellow leaves of fresh andrographis paniculata, keep tender stems and leaves. Rinse repeatedly with clean water to remove dust and impurities, then drain all water thoroughly.
2. Blanch to remove bitterness

   Boil an appropriate amount of water in a pot, add a little salt and a drop of cooking oil. Put in andrographis paniculata and blanch quickly for 20 to 30 seconds. Take it out immediately and soak it in ice cold water to lock the crisp texture and bright green color.
3. Drain well

   Take the chilled andrographis out, squeeze out excess water gently, put it into a large mixing bowl for later use.
4. Prepare the cold dressing

   Put minced garlic into a small bowl, add light soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, sugar and chicken essence. Stir evenly until all seasonings are fully dissolved.
5. Mix evenly

   Pour the prepared seasoning sauce over the andrographis paniculata, add coriander segments and chili rings. Drizzle with sesame oil and chili oil according to personal taste. Toss all ingredients evenly.
6. Marinate and serve

   Let it stand for 3 minutes to make it fully absorb the flavor. Arrange it on a plate and serve cold directly.

Cooking Tips

1. The blanching time must be short, too long will cause the vegetable to turn yellow and lose crisp taste.
2. Ice water soaking can effectively reduce the bitter taste of andrographis paniculata.
3. The collocation of sugar and vinegar can neutralize the bitter taste and improve the fresh taste.
4. Do not add too much heavy seasoning to retain its original herbal fragrance.
5. It tastes better after being refrigerated for a period of time in hot summer.