Namasu, a Japanese culinary gem, is a refreshing pickled dish that effortlessly combines the crispiness of julienned carrots, daikon radish, and thinly sliced cucumber with a sweet and tangy marinade of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
This simple yet vibrant recipe brings a burst of color to your plate and a delightful crunch to your palate. Perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity, Namasu is a versatile side dish that complements sushi, teriyaki chicken, or grilled fish.
With a quick prep time of 20 minutes and marinating magic of 2 hours, this easy-to-make dish offers a taste of Japan’s rich culinary tradition in every crisp, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, julienned
- 1 daikon radish, julienned
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Vegetables
- Wash and peel the carrots and daikon radish.
- Julienne the carrots and daikon into thin, matchstick-like strips.
- Thinly slice the cucumber.
Create Marinade
- Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Marinate Vegetables
- Place the julienned carrots, daikon radish, and sliced cucumber in the marinade.
- Ensure all vegetables are well-coated.
- Allow the blend to soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, letting the flavors blend harmoniously.
Serve
- Once marinated, transfer the Namasu to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Namasu: Add a kick by incorporating finely chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Citrus Twist: Infuse a burst of citrus flavor by adding grated orange or yuzu peel to the marinade.
- Ginger Infusion: Introduce warmth by including freshly grated ginger in the marinade for a unique twist.
- Pickled Beet Variation: Replace some of the carrots with pickled beets for a colorful and tangy variation.
What To Serve With Namasu
- Sushi Rolls: The crispiness of Namasu perfectly complements the savory flavors of sushi rolls.
- Teriyaki Chicken: Serve Namasu alongside teriyaki chicken for a balanced meal of sweet and tangy goodness.
- Miso Soup: The refreshing taste of Namasu contrasts beautifully with the warmth of a bowl of miso soup.
- Grilled Fish: Pair Namasu with grilled fish for a light and healthy combination that’s bursting with flavors.
- Rice Bowls: Enjoy Namasu with a simple rice bowl topped with your favorite protein for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Tempura Vegetables: The crunchiness of tempura vegetables complements the texture of Namasu, creating a delightful contrast.
Conclusion
Namasu, with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, is a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of crunchy vegetables and the sweet tanginess of the marinade makes it a crowd-pleaser. Easily prepared at home, this Japanese pickled dish is not only delicious but also a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Japan. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat your taste buds to the wonderful world of Namasu!
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Namasu Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, julienned
- 1 daikon radish, julienned
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Vegetables
- Wash and peel the carrots and daikon radish.
- Julienne the carrots and daikon into thin, matchstick-like strips.
- Thinly slice the cucumber.
Create Marinade
- Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Marinate Vegetables
- Place the julienned carrots, daikon radish, and sliced cucumber in the marinade.
- Ensure all vegetables are well-coated.
- Allow the blend to soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, letting the flavors blend harmoniously.
Serve
- Once marinated, transfer the Namasu to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch.
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