Pecel - mixed vegetables salad
Indonesian Pecel is a classic mixed vegetable salad that is commonly found on dining tables across the country, and rightly so. This dish is a household favourite with its unique blend of flavourful ingredients and enticing aroma. It is a hearty and nutritious dish that can be used as a main course or a side dish.
Pecel originates from East Java in Indonesia, but its popularity has spread throughout the country and beyond. The traditional ingredients used in this recipe are vegetables, usually kale or water spinach, cucumber, cucumber leaves, bean sprouts, long beans, and tomatoes. These are combined to create a wholesome, healthy salad that is both visually pleasing and delicious.
The dressing for the Pecel is a special blend of spices ground together into a paste. The spices typically used include chillies, garlic, shrimp paste, and peanuts, among other ingredients. The dressing is then mixed with water, tamarind paste, and sugar. The final result is a spicy, flavourful dressing that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables.
The Pecel recipe is simple and easy to follow, with plenty of room for creativity and adaptation. Home cooks can use whatever vegetables they have on hand, making it a versatile and convenient dish. The traditional Pecel recipe usually uses a mortar and pestle to grind the spices, but a food processor can also be used for ease and convenience.
The key to a good Pecel is the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, crisp vegetables are crucial for this salad to reach its full potential. Indonesians take great pride in using the best possible ingredients and preparation methods to create a wholesome and satisfying Pecel.
The Pecel recipe is incredibly nutritious, with a combination of vegetables and spices that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The dish is an excellent source of fiber, proteins, and healthy fats, making it ideal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. The spicy dressing also stimulates your metabolism, making it a great addition to anyone’s weight loss routine.
In addition to its nutritional value, Pecel is a fantastic dish for social occasions. It is commonly served in large portions, allowing for sharing and communal dining experiences. It is a great way to bring people together, united by the delicious flavours and shared experience.
In conclusion, Indonesian Pecel is a classic mixed vegetable salad that is both delicious and nutritious. Its unique combination of vegetables and spices create a delicious salad that is both flavourful and hearty. The recipe is easy to follow, and the dish is adaptable and versatile, making it an essential part of any Indonesian dining experience. Whether enjoyed alone or with friends and family, Pecel is a fantastic dish that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (blanched)
- 1 cup of bean sprouts (blanched)
- 1 cup of sliced cucumber
- 1 cup of sliced tomato
- 1 cup of sliced cabbage
- 1 cup of boiled potato (sliced)
- 1 cup of boiled egg (sliced)
For the pecel sauce:
- 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 3 red bird’s eye chili peppers (minced)
- 2 tsp of palm sugar
- 2 tsp of tamarind paste
- 1 tsp of shrimp paste
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 cup of water
Directions:
- Arrange the mixed vegetables, bean sprouts, cucumber, tomato, cabbage, boiled potato and boiled egg on a plate.
- In a small pot, mix the garlic, red bird’s eye chili peppers, palm sugar, tamarind paste, shrimp paste, salt and water.
- Heat the sauce until boiling and stir until the sauce becomes thicker.
- Pour the thick sauce over the mixed vegetables and serve it immediately.
Enjoy your Indonesian Pecel mixed vegetables salad!