Lao Hu Cai (Tiger Salad), à la Xi'an Famous Foods

Name: Lao Hu Cai (Tiger Salad), à la Xi'an Famous Foods
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 3 celery ribs (5 ounces; 140g), preferably cut from closer to the heart, peeled of tough fibers and cut into quite thick matchstick lengths; 1/2 long hot green pepper (1/2 ounce; 14g), split in half, each half then cut on a bias (see note); 2 scallions, sliced thinly on a bias (2 ounces; 56g); 1 small bunch cilantro leaves and tender stems, torn by hand or chopped into 3-inch lengths (1 ounce; 28g); 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar; 3/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt; if using table salt, use half as much by volume; 3/4 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons tiny dried shrimp (0.2 ounce; 6g); see note

This Lao Hu Cai (Tiger Salad) recipe, à la Xi'an Famous Foods, combines crisp celery, spicy pepper, scallions, and cilantro, dressed in a tangy and slightly sweet vinaigrette. Topped with tiny dried shrimp for a burst of umami, this refreshing salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Celery

Cilantro