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A close-up of a vibrant and spicy Tiger Salad with fresh cucumber, cilantro, and red chili in a dark, textured bowl.
Layla

Classic Chinese Tiger Salad (Lao Hu Cai)

A refreshingly spicy and aromatic Northern Chinese salad featuring crisp cilantro, scallions, and peppers in a zesty soy-vinegar dressing. This authentic Tiger Salad recipe comes together in minutes for a perfect, pungent side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese, Northern Chinese
Calories: 65
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 large bunch Cilantro about 3 cups, washed and thoroughly dried, coarse stems removed
  • 6 Scallions white and green parts, finely julienned
  • 2 Long Green Hot Peppers such as Anaheim or Hungarian Wax, deseeded and finely julienned
  • 1/2 Red Bell Pepper deseeded and finely julienned (for color and sweetness)
  • 2 cloves Garlic finely minced
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
  • 1.5 tbsp Chinkiang Vinegar or substitute with rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil
  • 1 tsp Granulated Sugar or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small Bowl or Jar

Method
 

Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry all the vegetables. This is crucial to prevent a watery salad. A salad spinner works great for the cilantro.
  2. Cut the cilantro into 2-inch long sections. Finely julienne the scallions (both white and green parts), the long green hot peppers, and the red bell pepper into thin, matchstick-like strips. Finely mince the garlic.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared cilantro, scallions, green hot peppers, red bell pepper, and minced garlic.
Make the Dressing & Combine
  1. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the light soy sauce, Chinkiang vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Whisk or shake vigorously until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved.
  2. Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together with tongs or chopsticks until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want a little more salt, sugar, or vinegar depending on your preference.
  4. Serve the Tiger Salad immediately for the best crisp texture and vibrant flavor. It's a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats, dumplings, or rice dishes.

Notes

Spice Level: For a milder salad, use only one green hot pepper or substitute with a non-spicy variety like a green bell pepper. For a spicier kick, add a finely minced red chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Make-Ahead: This salad is best enjoyed fresh as the cilantro can wilt. However, you can prep the vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Toss them together just before serving.
Variations: Some variations include adding shredded cucumber, celery, or even dried shrimp for an umami boost.