“False Meat” Smoky Egg Salad is a unique and surprisingly satisfying salad that captures the taste and heartiness of meat without actually including any. This recipe combines smoky cheese, Korean-style spicy carrots, and hard-boiled eggs to create a savory, creamy salad with plenty of texture and flavor. The name “False Meat” speaks to the surprisingly meaty flavor created by the smoky cheese and rich ingredients. Simple, quick, and perfect for any occasion, this salad can be prepared in just a few minutes, especially if you have pre-boiled eggs on hand. It’s ideal for a light lunch, as a side dish, or even as a sandwich filling.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, hard-boiled
- 130 g (4.5 oz) smoked cheese, shredded
- 150 g (5.3 oz) Korean-style spicy carrots (available pre-made or can be prepared at home)
- 140 g (5 oz) canned sweet corn, drained
- Mayonnaise, to taste (start with about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Steps to Make “False Meat” Smoky Egg Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you haven’t already, boil the eggs. Place them in a pot of cold water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cook for about 10 minutes. Let cool, peel, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Shred the Cheese: Grate or finely shred the 130 g smoked cheese into thin pieces, making it easier to mix in with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, shredded smoked cheese, Korean-style carrots, and canned corn.
- Add Mayonnaise: Add 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise to start, then mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated. Adjust the mayonnaise quantity to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and a bit of black pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as smoked cheese can be quite salty on its own.
Step 3: Serve
- Transfer to a Serving Bowl: For presentation, transfer the salad to a clean bowl and garnish with a small amount of fresh herbs if desired (like parsley or chives).
- Chill or Serve Immediately: This salad can be enjoyed right away or refrigerated for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold as a side dish, sandwich filler, or even with crackers for a savory appetizer.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
(Assuming 4 servings)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of smoked cheese is best for this recipe?
Smoked gouda, cheddar, or provolone all work well for this recipe. Choose a cheese with a strong smoky flavor to enhance the “meat-like” quality of the salad.
2. Can I substitute the Korean-style carrots?
Yes, any pickled or lightly spicy shredded carrots will work. You can also make your own Korean-style carrots by seasoning shredded carrots with sesame oil, garlic, and a bit of chili powder.
3. How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh due to the mayonnaise content.
4. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Certainly! Chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even diced cucumber would add fresh flavor and crunch to this salad.
5. What can I serve with “False Meat” Smoky Egg Salad?
This salad is delicious served as a side dish with grilled vegetables, fresh bread, or even in a wrap for a quick meal on the go.
Tips for Making the Perfect “False Meat” Smoky Egg Salad
- Use Quality Smoked Cheese: The cheese provides much of the “meaty” flavor in this dish, so opt for a high-quality smoked variety.
- Make Ahead for Extra Flavor: Preparing the salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to blend, creating a richer taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste test the salad before serving, especially if your smoked cheese is salty. Adjust the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to ensure balance.
- Try with Greek Yogurt for a Healthier Option: For a lighter version, replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This substitution adds protein and reduces fat content.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best to consume it within this period, as the mayonnaise can cause the ingredients to soften over time.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing mayonnaise-based salads is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Conclusion
“False Meat” Smoky Egg Salad is a fantastic, quick-to-prepare dish that impresses with its bold flavors and unique, hearty texture. Whether you’re a fan of salads or looking for a meatless alternative with a rich taste, this recipe will not disappoint. Its blend of smoky cheese, spiced carrots, and creamy mayonnaise brings together a delightful dish that’s versatile, easy, and irresistibly delicious.