This is the ultimate confinement accompaniment to provide that much needed heaty boost while you’re recovering. This common staple “condiment” is used in a variety of dishes, but is most commonly paired with simple, steamed chicken. You can however, pair this with steamed fish, plain rice, noodles or just about anything. Make it in a big batch and keep in the fridge for up to one week of usage for convenience. It’s warming, tasty and ideal for the entire duration of confinement.
Dish Name: Ginger & Green Onion Sauce, Ginger Scallion Sauce
Traditional Chinese Name: 薑蔥蓉 (jiāng cōng róng) or 薑蓉 (jiāng róng)
What are the ingredients?
Good for 2 cups in serving:
- 8 ounces (or about 2 bunches) of finely chopped scallions
- 2 ounces of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly into half-inch slices
- 1 cup of oil (peanut or corn oil is best in this case as it doesn’t leave a metallic taste)
- 1 clove of garlic, diced (optional)
- salt to taste
How do I prepare it? (The traditional and dangerous way)
- Put the scallions, ginger and salt into a deep, big ceramic bowl (no plastic as the oil will melt it!)
- In a low pan, heat up the oil and garlic together until the oil is steaming and the garlic is slightly browned
- Ensure there is no one around you or the bowl when you do the next step
- Pour the hot oil and garlic into the bowl (with the scallions and ginger) – take caution as it will bubble and fizz
- Mix quickly and evenly with a spoon
- Serve and enjoy!
How do I prepare it? (The safer way)
- In a pot, heat up one teaspoon of oil, garlic, ginger and scallions
- When the ginger and scallions become limp (not completely cooked), remove from heat and set aside
- When cooled, add salt and mix
- Serve and enjoy!
Any benefits?
- This portion can go far when stored in the fridge
- It is diverse and can be used as a condiment for all foods
- It is heaty, warming and ideal for confining mothers (and even hubbies and family members)
- Consumable right from day 1 of confinement until day 30
- It’s a great base for adding other ingredients (such as soy sauce, spicy sauce, oyster sauce) to suit any palette
Any precautions?
- The traditional way of making this can be dangerous (so keep small children away!)
- If you’re breastfeeding and concerned about allergies or potential allergies for your baby, avoid peanut oil and use corn oil instead
- Avoid olive oil
