A classical Caesar Salad dressing, but with a twist by swapping out the anchovy for Chinese fermented bean curd. This vegetarian dressing is packed with umami flavour and creamy texture dressing that just glides onto the romaine lettuce.
This vegetarian dressing post features an innovative recipe for a classical Caesar Salad dressing by swapping out the anchovy for Chinese fermented bean curd. Other key ingredient are: mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, parmesan cheese.
Why Try This Recipe?
There's Caesar Salad dressing in almost all super markets. There's store-bought fresh Caesar Salad, and so many other variety and places you can buy. It is a typical salad dressing that everyone knows and easily get. However, our version is one that you'll never forget!
Using fermented bean curd instead of anchovy is rich in umami, which is essential for the depth of flavour in Caesar dressing. While fermented bean curd has a distinctive taste, it add a slightly different, yet complex and earthy flavour to the dressing. Here are some more reasons:
- Umami Factor: Both anchovies and fermented tofu curd are rich in umami, which is essential for the depth of flavour in Caesar dressing. Fermented bean curd provides a similar savoury, salty punch that anchovies contribute.
- Texture: Fermented bean curd has a creamy, smooth texture that can blend well into the dressing, offering a consistency similar to that of anchovy paste.
- Flavour Profile: While fermented bean curd has a distinctive taste, it adds a slightly different, yet complex and earthy flavour to the dressing. This creates a unique twist on the classic Caesar salad.
- Dietary Considerations: Using fermented bean curd makes the dressing suitable for vegetarians and those who are looking to avoid fish products, broadening the appeal of the dish.
- Pairing with Other Ingredients: The tangy, creamy base of a Caesar dressing—typically made with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—complements the fermented bean curd well, balancing its strong flavour with acidity and creaminess.
Why Fermented Bean Curd?
Fermented bean curd, often referred to as "Chinese cheese," is a staple in many Asian cuisines. It boasts a robust, savory flavor profile that's rich in umami, similar to anchovies. Additionally, its creamy texture blends seamlessly into dressings, ensuring your Caesar salad remains smooth and luscious.
This ingredient not only adds a unique twist but also makes the dressing suitable for vegetarians and those avoiding fish products.
Today, we’re reinventing the classic Caesar salad dressing by swapping out the traditional anchovy for a surprising ingredient: fermented bean curd.
This simple switch adds an unexpected depth of flavour and keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly, without compromising on the rich, umami goodness that defines a great Caesar dressing.
The Flavor Profile
This twist on the classic Caesar salad dressing delivers an unexpectedly delightful flavour. The fermented bean curd provides a deep, umami richness that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon juice, sharp Dijon mustard, and nutty Parmesan cheese. The creamy texture of the dressing clings beautifully to the crisp romaine lettuce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
For the dressing to stick to the lettuce, mayonnaise is a key ingredient for a Caesar Salad. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended, but low-fat mayonnaise like avocado mayonnaise is also fine.
Lemon juice
To brighten all the cream and strong flavour, lemon juice is highly recommended. Ideally fresh lemon juice rather than store-bought lemon juice in a plastic bottle.
Garlic
One of the essential ingredients to make a great dressing is garlic. Best to grate the garlic than finely chopped.
Chinese fermented bean curd
Chinese fermented bean curd, or "fu ru," has a rich umami flavour with pronounced saltiness, slight sweetness, and a creamy, spreadable texture. It also features tangy and earthy notes with a pungent aroma, making it a unique and complex condiment.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is added to Caesar salad dressing to enhance its flavour with a rich umami taste, providing depth and complexity. The cheese also contributes to the creamy texture of the dressing, helping to emulsify the ingredients and create a smooth, cohesive blend.
I recommend a complete block of parmesan cheese because it is extra creamy and packed with more flavours than the Kraft shredded cheese.
This vegetarian dressing post features an innovative recipe for a classical Caesar Salad dressing by swapping out the anchovy for Chinese fermented bean curd. Other key ingredient are: mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, parmesan cheese.
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Vegetarian Caesar Salad Dressing
Equipment
- food processor
Ingredients
- 1-2 fermented bean curd
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 dash Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- In the food processor, add all the ingredients except the parmesan cheese. Process the mixture until smooth and no lump. Transwer to a large bowl.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Toss with fresh Romaine lettuce, croutons, and additional grated Parmesan cheese for a classic Caesar salad.
