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Rettichsalat

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer vegetarian, Appetizers

Rettichsalat

Rettichsalat is a staple in Bavarian beer gardens, a dish that balances simplicity with boldness. It's a familiar favorite enjoyed on warm afternoons, where the crispness of the white beer radish pairs perfectly with a refreshing brew. This version captures the essence of the home-cooked salad, prepared with the same ease and enjoyment that defines its origins.

Expect a satisfying crunch and a subtle sharpness, softened by a touch of oil and the gentle acidity of white wine vinegar. The snipped chives add a hint of freshness, while a pinch of fine sea salt enhances the flavors. It's straightforward yet delightful, inviting you to savor each bite as if you were in the heart of Bavaria.

Ingredients

  • 1white beer radish — spiral-cut
  • 2 tbspoil
  • 1 tbspwhite wine vinegar
  • chivessnipped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by thoroughly washing the white beer radish under cold running water to remove any dirt. Peel the radish using a vegetable peeler, then slice it into thin rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for slices about 2-3 mm thick to ensure they absorb the dressing well.
  2. Place the radish slices in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle them with a generous pinch of fine sea salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture and soften the radish slightly, enhancing its flavor.
  3. While the radish sits, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar until well combined. The mixture should look slightly emulsified, with no separation between the oil and vinegar.
  4. After the radish has rested, drain any liquid that has accumulated at the bottom of the bowl. This step is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming watery and to concentrate the flavors.
  5. Pour the dressing over the radish slices and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. The radish should glisten with the dressing, but not be swimming in it.
  6. Snip a handful of chives into small pieces and sprinkle them over the salad. Toss again lightly to distribute the chives throughout, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor.
  7. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more fine sea salt if needed. The flavor should be balanced, with a slight tang from the vinegar and a hint of saltiness.
  8. Serve the Rettichsalat immediately, accompanied by fresh bread or Brezeln. The salad should be crisp and refreshing, with the radish retaining a slight crunch and the dressing providing a subtle, savory finish.
Cover of Authentic German Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic German Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic German Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the German volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.