Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Rice
- Combine rinsed rice and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and cool to room temperature, spreading on a plate to speed cooling.
Toast the Almonds
- While rice cooks, spread almonds on a dry baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 6-8 minutes, stirring once, until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until smooth. The miso will resist at first - keep whisking until fully incorporated. Thin with 1-2 teaspoons water if needed for pourable consistency.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled rice, cabbage, cucumbers, edamame, and white parts of scallions. Pour dressing over and toss thoroughly, using your hands or tongs to coat every grain and leaf.
- Top with toasted almonds and sliced green scallions. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate up to 2 hours if you prefer the cabbage slightly wilted and more absorbent.
Notes
White miso (shiro miso) is milder and sweeter than darker varieties - don't substitute red or barley miso or the dressing will overpower the vegetables. For a heartier meal, add a jammy soft-boiled egg or shredded rotisserie chicken on top. The dressed salad keeps surprisingly well for 2 days; the cabbage softens but the flavors deepen and improve.
