Chang's Crispy Noodle Salad
User Reviews
5
Chang's Crispy Noodle Salad
Description
This salad uses Chinese cabbage, also known as wombok, valued for its leafy, tender texture that remains crisp without wilting excessively when dressed. Toasted slivered almonds add a toasty nutty note while thinly sliced green onions contribute mild pungency and color. The dressing is a simple blend of white vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and olive oil, which yields a balanced sweet and tangy profile with a touch of umami.
The key to maintaining texture is to toss the salad ingredients without the crispy noodles initially, then fold the noodles in just before serving. This prevents sogginess and delivers satisfying crunch alongside the tender cabbage. This salad complements rich or fried dishes as a fresh accompaniment or stands alone as a light, textured salad.
For preparation, use fine crispy noodles like Chang’s brand or homemade baked ramen noodles as a substitute. While best served fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead and combine before eating.
Ingredients
- 1 chinese cabbage Note 1, aka wombok, or 1/2 a giant one
- 100g/ 3.5oz crispy noodles store bought, the fine ones not chunky ones, Note 2, Chang's brand
- 5 green onions , finely sliced on the diagonal
- 100g/ 3.5oz almonds slivered
Dressing:
- 4 tbsp white vinegar (just ordinary vinegar, nothing fancy!)
- 2 tbsp white sugar (or brown)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce , all purpose or light, NOT dark soy sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil , toasted (brown, not yellow untoasted)
- 5 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Toast almonds: Lightly toast the slivered almonds in a small skillet over medium heat until lightly browned (no oil). Remove immediately and let cool.
- Dressing: Shake Dressing ingredients in a jar until sugar is dissolved. (This keeps for 3 weeks!)
- Shred cabbage: Cut cabbage (see photos in post, helpful): cut 1 slit down the middle lengthwise (or 2, if it's giant like the one I used). Then finely slice so it's shredded. Just use the top 1/2 - 2/3, mostly leafy part. Reserve the thick crunchy white part for another use (excellent in stir fries!).
- Toss everything except crispy noodles: Place cabbage in a big bowl with toasted almonds and green onions. Pour over Dressing, toss well.
- Add crispy noodles! Toss through noodles just before serving so they stay crisp!
Notes
- Use Chinese cabbage (wombok) for its tender leaves that dress well without wilting.
- Chang's Crispy Noodles are recommended; alternatively, bake ramen noodles for a homemade crunchy substitute.
- Prepare salad ingredients in advance and add crispy noodles only at serving time to keep crunch.
- This salad is best served fresh and pairs well with shredded chicken or as a refreshing side.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
