Asparagus Shandong Style (Liang Ban Lu-Sun)

🌱 Asparagus Shandong Style (Liang Ban Lu-Sun) 🌱

What is it?
Asparagus Shandong Style, also known as Liang Ban Lu-Sun, is a delectable Chinese cold salad featuring asparagus as the star ingredient. This dish is beloved for its crisp, tender asparagus spears and a flavorful dressing that combines elements of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.

History:
The origins of Liang Ban Lu-Sun can be traced back to Shandong, a coastal province in northeastern China known for its culinary diversity. Shandong cuisine is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Asparagus Shandong Style is a reflection of the regional emphasis on seasonal produce and well-balanced seasonings.

Components:

1. Asparagus: Fresh, young asparagus spears are the primary ingredient. They should be blanched to retain their crunch.

2. Dressing: The dressing typically contains a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and sometimes sesame oil for a nutty flavor.

3. Additional Ingredients: Some variations of the dish may include ingredients like toasted sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, or finely chopped scallions for added texture and flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

Note: The following instructions are a general guide for making Asparagus Shandong Style. Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste.

Preparation Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (around 1 pound)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (rice vinegar or white vinegar works well)
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1-2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
• A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2-3 scallions, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blanch Asparagus:

   • Wash the asparagus and snap off the tough ends.
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt.
   • Blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes until they become tender but still crisp.
   • Drain and immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
   • Drain again and pat them dry.

2. Prepare Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil (if using). Adjust the sugar and soy sauce according to your taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • Arrange the blanched asparagus spears on a serving plate.
   • Drizzle the dressing over the asparagus.

4. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and, if desired, chopped scallions and crushed red pepper flakes on top.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Refrigerate the dish for about 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serve: 🍽️
Asparagus Shandong Style is best enjoyed cold as an appetizer or a side dish.

This delightful dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your culinary journey with Asparagus Shandong Style! 🌿🍽️

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus Shandong Style (Liang Ban Lu-Sun):

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: 60-80 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 2-4 grams
• Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugar: 2-3 grams
• Sodium: 300-400 mg

Health Information:
Asparagus Shandong Style is not only delicious but also offers some health benefits:

1. Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

2. Good Source of Fiber: Asparagus is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, promoting healthy weight management.

3. High in Antioxidants: Asparagus contains various antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, which help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals.

4. Rich in Vitamins: Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. These vitamins play essential roles in maintaining healthy skin, vision, and blood clotting.

5. Mineral Content: It contains essential minerals like folate, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and healthy cell growth.

6. Low in Fat: The dish is generally low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.

7. Soy Sauce Benefits: While soy sauce should be used in moderation due to its sodium content, it can add a savory flavor and provides small amounts of protein.

8. Sesame Seeds: The sesame seeds used for garnish contain healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, and are a good source of minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Remember that the nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used in your recipe. Asparagus Shandong Style can be a nutritious and flavorful addition to your diet, especially if you enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables and balanced flavors.