Fresh Watercress Salad with Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette

Mahalo to our friends at RoseAustin C for making this video!

Welcome to Snack Hawaii's recipe collection, where we celebrate the vibrant and unique flavors of the islands! Today, we're excited to share a truly special dish: a Fresh Watercress Salad with Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette. This isn't just any salad; it's a refreshing, tangy, and sweet masterpiece that embodies the innovative spirit of Hawaiian cuisine. If you're looking for unique Hawaiian salad recipes or creative ways to use Li Hing Mui powder, you've found a new favorite!

This salad is a perfect balance of crisp, peppery watercress and a dazzling vinaigrette made with the iconic Li Hing Mui powder. It offers a burst of sweet, sour, and salty flavors that truly elevates a simple salad into an unforgettable culinary experience. It's a fantastic side dish for any meal, a light lunch, or a vibrant addition to your next luau.

INGREDIENTS

For the Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 tsp Li Hing Mui powder (adjust to taste for more tangy-sweet flavor)

• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 2 tbsp sesame oil (toasted sesame oil for richer flavor)

• 1-2 tsp roasted sesame seeds (for garnish and texture)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or Hawaiian cane sugar for an authentic touch)

For the Salad:

• 1 large bunch fresh watercress, thoroughly washed and tough stems removed

• 2 cups alfalfa sprouts (for freshness and crunch)

• 1/2 large Maui onion, thinly sliced (or other sweet onion)

• 1-2 ripe tomatoes, diced or sliced

• 1/2 cup shredded dried squid (adds a unique savory, chewy texture

• 1 cup won ton strips, fried or baked (for a delightful crunch)

• Optional Additions: Tofu (firm or extra-firm, pressed and pan-fried or baked) would also be very good in this salad for added protein. Cooked and chilled shrimp, grilled chicken, or even sliced ahi tuna are also excellent additions.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the Li Hing Mui powder, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. Stir in the roasted sesame seeds. Taste and adjust sweetness/tanginess as desired. Set aside.

2. Prepare Salad Ingredients: Wash the watercress thoroughly under cold running water and gently pat dry. Arrange the watercress on a large serving platter or in a salad bowl.

3. Assemble the Salad: Scatter the alfalfa sprouts, thinly sliced Maui onions, diced tomatoes, and shredded dried squid over the watercress.

4. Dress and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette generously over the salad ingredients.

5. Add Crunch: Top with crispy won ton strips. Serve immediately and enjoy the unique flavors of this Hawaiian watercress salad!

Why You'll Love This Hawaiian Watercress Salad:

This Fresh Watercress Salad with Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey to the islands. The peppery bite of fresh watercress perfectly contrasts with the sweet, sour, and salty explosion of the Li Hing Mui dressing. It's light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful – truly a unique Hawaiian recipe that stands out. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to explore new tastes, this salad offers an authentic glimpse into the bold and innovative flavors popular in Hawaii.

For more unique Hawaiian recipes and to discover where to buy authentic Li Hing Mui products and other Hawaiian snacks, explore our collection at Snack Hawaii!

FAQs 

What is Li Hing Mui powder?

Li Hing Mui powder is a popular Hawaiian seasoning made from dried, salted plums. It's known for its unique balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors and is used on fruits, candies, and in various Hawaiian dishes.

Can I make the Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.

What kind of watercress should I use?

Use fresh, vibrant watercress with crisp leaves. You can typically find it in the produce section of most grocery stores.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! This Watercress Salad with Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette is highly customizable. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp, cooked and chilled edamame, sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts for added texture and flavor.

Is this salad spicy?

No, this salad is not spicy. The Li Hing Mui Vinaigrette provides a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile, not heat.