Burdock Salad with Three Sesame Dressing

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon clear vinegar or lemon juice
• 340 grams (12 ounces) burdock root
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoons Doubanjiang (chili bean paste)
• 2 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Instructions

1. 1
   In a large bowl add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and fill the bowl with water.
2. 2
   Peel the burdock one at a time, trim the ends, and cut them into 3” lengths. Put the pieces into the acidified water immediately. Repeat with the rest of the burdock.
3. 3
   Use a mandolin or sharp knife to slice the burdock into very thin ribbons, adding the sliced burdock back into the bowl of water as you work.
4. 4
   Put a pot of salted water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
5. 5
   While you wait for the water to boil, add the tahini, toasted sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, brown sugar, Doubanjiang, rice vinegar and grated ginger into a large bowl and whisk together.
6. 6
   Drain the burdock and add it to the boiling water. Cook the burdock for 2 minutes if you sliced it on a mandolin, or a little longer if you sliced it by hand. They should be translucent and no longer stiff, but should still be crunchy.
7. 7
   Drain the burdock, and then put the hot burdock into the bowl with the dressing. Mix well to combine.
8. 8
   Serve the salad warm with steamed rice or let it cool to room temperature and serve with mixed greens.