As the Lunar New Year approaches, kitchens around the world come alive with the vibrant flavors and colors of celebration. One dish that never fails to impress is the Prosperity Salad, or Yusheng, a beautiful mélange of fresh, shredded vegetables and succulent slices of raw fish. It’s not just about the taste; this salad embodies a cherished tradition, symbolizing good fortune and harmony as family and friends gather, chopsticks in hand, to toss the ingredients high in the air.
I first encountered this delightful dish at a friend’s festive gathering, where the aromatic plum sauce mingled with the crunch of fresh carrots and the luxurious texture of fish – a fitting omen for the new year. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize, making it perfect for a joyful gathering or simply as a rejuvenating start to a meal. Whether you’re celebrating the season or breaking away from the monotonous fast food routine, this Prosperity Salad promises a burst of flavor and a sprinkle of luck on your plate. Let’s dive in and make something truly special!
Why is Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) so special?
Cultural significance: This vibrant dish is steeped in tradition, symbolizing wealth and good fortune during Lunar New Year celebrations.
Visually stunning: The colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any festive table.
Flavor explosion: A delightful mix of crunchy vegetables and rich fish, each bite offers a refreshing taste experience.
Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, from vegetarian options to different types of fish.
Interactive dining: Tossing the salad together with loved ones creates an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep, this recipe allows you to focus on celebrating rather than spending time in the kitchen. For more exciting recipes, check out our Cantonese cuisine collection!
Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) Ingredients
For the Salad Base
- Carrots – Provides sweetness and crunch; you can substitute with bell peppers for added color.
- Cabbage – Acts as the base ingredient for volume and texture; Napa cabbage or regular green cabbage work well.
- Radishes – Offers a peppery bite, enhancing flavor complexity; daikon radish can be a milder substitute.
For the Fish
- Fish (e.g., salmon) – Adds richness and a luxurious element to the dish; other options like tuna can be used based on personal preference.
For the Sauce
- Plum Sauce – Brings sweetness and moisture, tying the salad together; consider making your own or use hoisin sauce as an alternative.
For Garnish
- Coriander (cilantro) – Imparts freshness and a hint of herbal flavor; basil can be an interesting twist for those looking for a different herbal note.
- Chopsticks – Essential for the traditional tossing method; they add a fun cultural element to your dining experience.
Additional Notes
- This Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) is best served fresh to keep all the ingredients crisp and vibrant for your Lunar New Year celebrations!
How to Make Prosperity Salad (Yusheng)
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Prep Vegetables: Start by shredding the carrots, cabbage, and radishes into thin strips. Aim for similar sizes to ensure a beautiful and even mix, enhancing both presentation and texture.
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Assemble Salad: On a large platter, artistically arrange the shredded vegetables to create a colorful display. Let the vibrant hues of orange and green catch everyone’s eye and build anticipation!
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Add Fish: Take your sushi-grade raw fish and thinly slice it. Layer the slices generously over the vegetables, creating a stunning contrast that showcases the rich, silky texture of the fish against the crunchy salad base.
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Add Sauce: Drizzle the plum sauce evenly over the top of your salad. This sweet and savory glaze will bring everything together, infusing the dish with delightful flavor while enhancing its appeal.
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Toss Together: Gather everyone around and grab your chopsticks! Toss the ingredients together vigorously, mixing the flavors well. This interactive element is not just fun; it’s an important part of the tradition!
Optional: Garnish with coriander or basil for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Prosperity Salad
- Room Temperature: Prosperity Salad is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to maintain its vibrant colors and crisp textures.
- Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, expect some loss of crunch.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Prosperity Salad as the vegetables and fish do not thaw well, compromising texture and flavor.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; simply toss and enjoy it cold for the best taste experience.
Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) Variations
Elevate your Prosperity Salad by incorporating personalized twists that amplify flavor and texture.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute raw fish with crispy tofu or creamy avocado for a fresh, plant-based twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds to introduce an irresistible nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some thinly sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to infuse your salad with a spicy, exciting zing.
- Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or yuzu juice over the salad for a zesty enhancement that brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Herbed Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or dill instead of cilantro for a unique herbal twist that adds vibrancy.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate mango or pineapple chunks to bring a sweet, juicy dimension that complements the dish beautifully.
- Colorful Additions: Toss in purple cabbage or beetroot for a pop of color and a subtle earthiness that enhances the overall appeal.
- Umami Boost: Drizzle a touch of soy sauce or coconut aminos over the top for an umami kick that adds depth and richness.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to craft your uniquely delicious Prosperity Salad!
Expert Tips for Prosperity Salad (Yusheng)
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Freshness Matters: Ensure all vegetables are crisp and fresh to maximize the crunch and flavor in your Prosperity Salad.
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Use Sushi-Grade Fish: If you’re including raw fish, make sure it’s sushi-grade for safety and the best taste experience.
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Toss Vigorously: For a flavorful meld, mix the salad thoroughly during the toss; it’s part of the tradition and enhances the taste!
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Customize Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to personalize your recipe by substituting vegetables or fish, making the Prosperity Salad your own.
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Keep it Cool: Serve the salad immediately after tossing to maintain freshness and prevent the ingredients from wilting.
Make Ahead Options
These Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) components are perfect for meal prep, taking stress off your busy weeknights! You can shred the carrots, cabbage, and radishes up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. The raw fish can also be sliced and kept for up to 3 days, but ensure it remains well-covered and chilled. When you’re ready to serve, simply arrange the prepped vegetables on a platter, layer the fish on top, drizzle with plum sauce, and toss everything together. This way, you’ll enjoy the delightful flavors of your Prosperity Salad with minimal effort, and it will taste just as delicious!
What to Serve with Prosperity Salad (Yusheng)?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the flavors and textures of this celebratory dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant side that absorbs the delicious plum sauce, making every bite outstanding.
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Chinese Tea: The warm, soothing notes of oolong or jasmine tea cleanse the palate while enhancing the freshness of the salad.
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Sesame Oil Dressing Drizzled Green Beans: These tender green beans provide a slight crunch and nutty flavor that contrast beautifully with the salad’s textures.
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Fried Szechuan Tofu: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this dish brings an additional layer of flavor with its spicy kick, perfect for a celebratory meal.
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Mandarin Orange Segments: The sweet, juicy bursts add a lovely contrast to the savory elements, enhancing the freshness of the Prosperity Salad.
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Cucumber and Carrot Pickles: The tangy crunch of these pickles brightens the meal and ties back to the salad’s vibrant ingredients, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice for Dessert: This traditional treat offers a sweet ending to your meal, balancing the savory and fresh flavors enjoyed earlier.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: Refreshing and light, this tea complements the salad’s bright flavors and offers a unique cultural twist to your Lunar New Year feast.
Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Prosperity Salad?
Absolutely! Freshness is key for this salad. Look for bright, crisp vegetables without any dark spots on the carrots or cabbage. When selecting fish, ensure you choose sushi-grade varieties for safety and quality, as this dish emphasizes fresh raw ingredients.
How long can I store leftover Prosperity Salad in the fridge?
Very! If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, expect the vegetables to lose some of their crunch. To maintain freshness, I recommend only mixing the dressing when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Prosperity Salad for later use?
Not really! Freezing Prosperity Salad isn’t recommended, as the vegetables and fish will lose their texture and flavor upon thawing. Instead, enjoy the salad fresh, or consider prepping the components separately so you can mix them right before serving.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making Prosperity Salad?
If your salad feels a bit flat in taste, try adding more plum sauce or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. If the vegetables are too watery, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel after washing to avoid a soggy salad. Don’t forget to mix the salad vigorously during the toss to blend all flavors well!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this for guests, take note of any allergies, especially related to fish. For a vegetarian version, swap the fish for crispy tofu or avocado. Additionally, if you’re serving young children or pets, opt for cooked fish or omit it entirely, ensuring all ingredients are suitable for everyone at the table.
How should I assemble and serve Prosperity Salad to ensure it’s visually appealing?
To make your salad stand out, arrange the shredded vegetables in a spiral or rainbow pattern on a large platter. Layer the fish on top and drizzle the plum sauce stylishly over everything before the big toss. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also invites everyone to partake in tossing together, enhancing the festive spirit of the occasion!
Delicious Prosperity Salad (Yusheng) for Lunar New Year Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred carrots, cabbage, and radishes into thin strips.
- Artistically arrange the shredded vegetables on a large platter.
- Thinly slice the sushi-grade raw fish and layer over the vegetables.
- Drizzle plum sauce evenly over the salad.
- Gather everyone to toss the ingredients together with chopsticks.
- Garnish with coriander or basil if desired.