#fresh-squeezed lime juice

[fieriframes]

[AN HOUR, AN HOUR AND A HALF. NOW THAT IT'S SIMMERED, FRESH-SQUEEZED LIME JUICE. A LITTLE BRIGHTNESS, A LITTLE ACID.]

[girlfictions]

i love you lychee i love you mango i love you passionfruit i love you rambutan i love you papaya i love you jackfruit i love you longan i love you mangosteen i love you dragonfruit i love you langsat i love you guava i love you tropical fruits!!!! 🧡🧡🧡

[peatmosses]

Entering my tomato basil soup and grilled cheese era. I almost had to close the door to the room I’m in because of the way I’m eating it so frantically.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day

Packed with vitamins and bursting with flavor, there's nothing quite like a tall glass of fresh squeezed juice!

Get those vitamins and other nutrients into that diet the easy way, with fresh squeezed juice! Enjoy a simple and basic glass of fresh squeezed orange juice, or go for a blend that is a bit more unique and exotic, such as passion fruit with avocado or clementine with ginger.

No matter which type is the favorite, National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day is the time to enjoy and appreciate all of the vegetable and fruit concoctions that can be squeezed into a tall glass!

History of National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day

It’s likely that people have been enjoying fresh squeezed juice in a rudimentary manner ever since humans have been eating fruit! Ripe citrus fruits, in particular, can easily be “juiced” by hand, simply by squishing and rolling around an orange or grapefruit in the hand until the internal parts break down and the inside is deliciously juicy. Then, the fresh squeezed juice can be extracted by cutting a hole in one end and pressing the juice out into a glass.

It wasn���t until 1930 or so, though, that the mechanical device known as a juicer was developed by an Italian-British businessman, Dr. Normal Walker. This development of this machine allowed juice to be extracted from many more fruits and vegetables in a much more efficient manner.

In the 1970s, the trend toward eating more raw fruits and vegetables started, predominantly in the western United States, particularly in California. As the health benefits of natural eating became more widespread, the fresh squeezed juice craze evolved and moved into the mainstream in the 1990s as juice bars began cropping up.

National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day takes place early in the year, acting as a motivator for forming new habits or living out those New Year’s resolutions. Celebrating the healthy lifestyle that can come from including more fruits and vegetables into the daily routine, this is the day to enjoy a giant glass of fresh squeezed juice!

How to Celebrate National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day

Take advantage of the many opportunities to get healthy and happy on National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day! Try out some of these ideas for celebrating and enjoying the day:

Go Out for Fresh Squeezed Juice

Juice bars and farmers’ markets are all the rage these days, so getting access to fresh squeezed juice is even easier. National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day is just the time to stop by a tasty juice bar. Many cities and towns have their own locally owned juice bars, and supporting these businesses is a great way to celebrate the day.

For those who are interested in finding one that is part of a chain of juice bars, consider stopping by one of these for a glass of fresh squeezed juice. They might even offer a discount in honor of this important day!

Juice it Up! With more than 85 locations throughout the United States, this franchise chain has been making freshly squeezed juice since 1995, offering not only fresh squeezed juices but also smoothies and acai bowls.

Nékter Juice Bar. Founded in California, this company makes its juice bars available within more than 150 restaurants throughout the US where it offers raw, fresh squeezed juices as well as other healthy drinks and snacks.

Raw Jūce. This south Florida chain of raw juice bars has been around since 2013 and offers freshly squeezed juices that come from the brand’s own organic produce company, Fresh Harvest Organics, with farm-to-bottle standards.

I Love Juice Bar. At least thirty expressions of this company’s juice bar locations can be found mostly throughout the southern United States, especially in Tennessee and Texas.

Consider Purchasing a Juicer

Those who really want to get motivated to get into the life of juicing may want to do some research and purchase a juicer for their home. Some of these juicers might be options for getting on a healthier track by drinking fresh squeezed juice at home each day:

Nutribullet Slow Juicer. Easy to clean and with a quiet motor, this juicer is also super compact so it doesn’t take up a lot of counter space or other precious real estate in the kitchen!

Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Juicer. Offering a super affordable price, this juicer is easy to set up and has a wide mouth that can handle whole apples all at once.

Omega Slow Juicer. Completely dishwasher safe so it’s super easy to clean, this super convenient piece of equipment is a bit on the pricey side but is versatile enough to also make nut butters, pasta, breadsticks and milks.

Breville 3X Bluicer. A great combination of blender and juicer, this one is a perfect introduction to the world of juicing without having to make a huge commitment.

Enjoy Some Fresh Squeezed Juice at Home

Making blends of juices can be a fun and creative way to stay healthy and also add variety to what could be an otherwise boring day. For people who want to keep it simple, it can be as easy as rolling that grapefruit around on the counter and then sticking a straw in it to drink the yummy juice out!

People who already have a juicer might want to try out some of these super healthy and interesting combination recipes for fresh squeezed juice:

Pineapple Celery Green Juice. Loaded with nutrients and filled with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, this combination takes only five minutes and can help with digestive problems too.

Mango Spinach Fresh Squeezed Juice. Full of bright colors and flavors, the spinach offers a ton of nutrients and a yummy taste is added with fresh mint, freshly squeezed lime juice and freshly squeezed orange juice.

Ginger Turmeric Lemonade. Using freshly squeezed lemons, this recipe brings health and flavor to the forefront with spices like black peppercorns, turmeric and ginger.

Orange Carrot Ginger Fresh Squeezed Juice. Perfect for breakfast, this juice really packs a punch with antioxidants and vitamins, and the ginger helps the body to heal or fight off chronic illness and disease.

National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day FAQs

Are fresh squeezed juices good for you?

Fresh squeezed juices are high in vitamins and minerals, but may raise the blood sugar levels and do not have as much fiber as a piece of whole fruit.

How long is fresh squeezed lemon juice good for?

In drinks, lemon juice stays fresh for a few days but fresh squeezed lemon juice can be used for cooking for up to 14 days.

Can you freeze fresh squeezed orange juice?

Sure! Fresh squeezed orange juice can be frozen to preserve its life for up to 12-14 months.

How to make fresh squeezed orange juice?

The easiest way is to roll an orange around on the counter several times until it is soft, heat it briefly in the microwave, then cut into eight pieces to squeeze the juice out.

Are fresh squeezed juices safe during pregnancy?

Fresh squeezed juices sold by the glass may not be pasteurized to kill harmful bacteria, making them particularly unsafe for pregnant women and children.

Source

[hannacho-art]

Sizzling Pork Tacos

These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[zachandkaylarph]

Sizzling Pork Tacos Recipe

Sizzling Pork Tacos. These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[saiyanprincess90]

Recipe for Sizzling Pork Tacos

Made with Red Bell Pepper, Corn Tortillas, Pork Tenderloin, Black Pepper, Cumin, Salt, Cilantro, Olive Oil, Chili Powder, Lime, Garlic Powder, Red Onion. These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[servantmichael]

Recipe for Sizzling Pork Tacos

Made with Red Bell Pepper, Corn Tortillas, Pork Tenderloin, Black Pepper, Cumin, Salt, Cilantro, Olive Oil, Chili Powder, Lime, Garlic Powder, Red Onion. These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[vaughnboyd]

Tacos Recipe - Sizzling Pork Tacos

These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[tatianadickinson]

Tacos Recipe - Sizzling Pork Tacos

These flavorful sizzling pork tacos are ideal for a quick and easy dinner. The pork is seasoned with a spice blend and browned before being served on warm tortillas with saut&

[riebearsp]

Okay so I’ve been looking for a replacement for spicy chips cause I miss them but they’re sooo unhealthy but I found this recipe. it’s about 150 cals for three rice cakes (with olive oil) about 120 without. I haven’t tried yet but I’ll definitely try it soon.

Ingredients:

- Plain rice cakes

- Olive oil spray (optional for a bit of added crunch)

- Chili powder

- Paprika

- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

- Garlic powder

- Onion powder

- Salt

- Lime juice (optional for a tangy flavor)

Instructions:

1. **Preparation**:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. **Seasoning Mix**:

- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (more or less depending on your spice tolerance), 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.

3. **Preparing Rice Cakes**:

- Lightly spray both sides of each rice cake with olive oil spray. This helps the seasoning stick and gives a slight crispiness.

4. **Seasoning**:

- Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the rice cakes. You can use a brush to spread it evenly or gently shake off the excess.

5. **Baking**:

- Place the seasoned rice cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

6. **Finishing Touch**:

- Remove the rice cakes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

- Optionally, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the top for a tangy kick.

7. **Serving**:

- Break the rice cakes into smaller pieces if you prefer bite-sized snacks, or enjoy them as they are.

[luveline]

i’ve been re-reading some of the kbd au and was wondering if u would be up to writing a little kbd blurb wherein steve’s being all flirty and silly with reader? idk what it is but flirty kbd!steve specifically rips my heart open he’s so cute when he’s trying to charm r make r laugh <3 thank u as always mwah

thank you my love!! ♡ kbd au

Bethie brings a drink with her as she enters the living room. Steve a few steps behind her, your husband leans in the doorway and winces with every drop she spills on the floor. 

The cup is half full when it reaches you, but it is for you. "Here, mom." 

"Thank you," you say, tone enthused with bubbly affection. Bethie looks like you rather than Steve, and her smile is a mirror.

"Daddy says, uhm…" She looks over her shoulder at Steve. He nods encouragingly. She turns back. "Dad says to tell you that it's from a man at the bar. Because you look beautiful." 

You sniff at the drink, take an experimental sip. It's Steve's version of a virgin margarita, lemonade, orange juice and a spritz of fresh lime juice. "Ooh, so yummy. You want to try?" 

Bethie wrinkles her nose. "Will I like it?" 

Probably not. "I'm not sure, but it's got bubbles?"

Bethie shakes her head. You don't take it personally, scooping your second eldest up to sit on your thigh. She's not heavy. It's actually really nice when she leans back and uses your tummy as a chair, to be loved like this. 

Steve crosses his arms over his chest. "Come here often?" he asks with a wink. 

"Only every day, handsome." 

"Handsome? You're two timing the poor dolt stupid enough to buy you a drink, you know." 

"Poor dolt should've used his eyes." You gesture to either side of you, where Avery, the eldest, sits to your left and Dove, the youngest, lounges at your right. "I'm clearly taken." 

"Can't blame a guy for trying. I mean," —Steve whistles, looking you up and down, but he can't commit to his skit, and he cracks a smile— "hot damn, look at you." 

"Come here," you say. 

Steve's smile turns smug. He dodges the small margarita puddles on the way and leans down to kiss you, his hands on your face, a spritely peck that turns to kisses all over your left cheek. "Was the drink okay?" he asks, rubbing at your cheek with his thumb when he's done. 

You meet his eyes. Sugary brown, little flecks of honey crushed as his pupil grows bigger the longer he looks at you. "It's nice. I like your margaritas more than the store bought. Thank you, honey." 

"Oh," he hums, kissing you again. "You're welcome." 

"Daddy," Dove says simply. 

Steve knows what she wants, he can read their wants and needs from less, scooping her up to perch on the end of the couch. She can still fit into the curve of one arm if she tries. 

"Let me guess, you wanted a margarita," Steve teases, sliding a hand under her shirt to tickle her tummy. 

She laughs but ultimately protests, waiting for Steve to kiss her. He noses at her forehead, kissing her temple softly. "Better?" he asks. 

She settles in his arms and turns back to the TV, content. 

"See? You're not the only one in high demand." 

You sit back and beg him with your eyes to do the same. Steve does so immediately, shoulder to shoulder with you, pressing the tip of his nose to your cheek. Bethie wriggles in your arms and Avery asks about dinner, but for a few silly seconds, it's just you and Steve. 

"Love you. You look really, really pretty today. I had to tell you," Steve says. 

You reach out to squeeze Avery's hand to show you've heard her question. "I love you too, Stevie. Thank you." You make me feel really, really pretty. 

Especially when he says it like that. Three kids and he acts as though you're pretty enough for an urgent telling. Steve would tell you you're even prettier than the day he met you, and he's consistent enough that you genuinely believe it. He's your number one fan, and you're his. 

"Takeout?" you ask.

Steve's eyes glow with love. "Did I mention that you're beautiful?" 

[thedirtybeanlife]

If you’re down for it could you write a chubby nb reader x Rudy or Alejandro? (Can be SFW or NSFW I don’t mind pookie)

(ofc! it's a little short, but i hope you enjoy!! <33)

Alejandro x Reader

You stand in the kitchen, preparing ingredients for tonight's dinner. Alejandro had been at work since early this morning, way before the sun had risen. Knowing he would be hungry, you ran out to the store and bought the things to make his favorite meal; carne asada, homemade flour tortillas, and fresh pico de gallo. Quickly working, you take the steak that has been marinating since this morning out of the fridge and place it on the counter.

Walking outside, you open the lid of the grill and throw the meat onto the hot rack, closing the lid again and bringing everything else outside and place it on the counter surrounding the grill from a safe distance, making a makeshift outdoor kitchen. After placing everything down, you start chopping the red onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and a jalapeño to make the fresh pico de gallo. You carefully squeeze in some lime juice from a fresh lime and mix it all together, covering it and sitting it aside.

Just as you go to start preparing to make the homemade tortillas with the dough you had made a little bit ago, you hear footsteps approaching you making you look up with a smile.

"Huele increíble aquí, mi amor," Alejandro says with a smile as he walks over to you and wraps his arms around you, effortlessly picking you up like you weigh nothing making you blush slightly. Even after all these years together, you struggled with accepting his affection when it came to your physical appearance.

"I figured you've had a long day, so I'm making your favorite," you say with a grin as he holds you in his strong arms, your feet still not touching the ground below.

"Carne Asada, huh? You know me so well, mi cielito," he laughs before placing a kiss to your lips and putting you back down, moving to lean against the counter your working on.

You smile happily up at him, leaning up to place a kiss on his cheek before going back to rolling out the flour tortillas and placing them on a tea towel carefully. You then put a cast iron skillet on the burner of the grill, heating it up and oiling it slightly so the dough doesn't stick.

"I was also thinking i could make you and the boys some dulce de leche mousse this weekend for the gathering Rudy has planned," you offer sweetly.

"I think everyone would love that, baby," he smiles and nods as he watches you, "Do you want any help?"

"Absolutely not. This is my treat to you. You work too hard all day to have to come home and make dinner too," you scold playfully, swatting him away with your dish towel as he tries to step in and help.

He laughs as you swat him away and puts his hands up in mock surrender, stepping behind you and wrapping his arms around you, kissing the top of your head and placing his chin on it after. Alejandro runs his large hands under your apron and shirt, his calloused fingers gently grabbing at your plump flesh and caressing it as he runs his fingers along your curves whispering sweet nothings in your ear as you work.

Within thirty minutes, everything is done and Alejandro insisted he at least could set the table. After a few minutes of trying to tell him no, you give up and he happily walks inside to grab plates and silverware for the table. You carry all of the food inside in two trips and place it in respect places on the kitchen table.

"Dios mío, mi amor. esto se ve increíble," Alejandro gapes at the food as he watches you set it down.

You laugh at his reaction and grab two glasses, pouring some wine into each, handing him one and putting yours down on the table. You pile food on his plate before sitting down and doing the same to yours. He digs in immediately, moaning around a mouthful of steak and tortilla, nodding before swallowing and going in for another large bite.

"Calm down, Alejandro!" you laugh, "It's not going anywhere. you're going to choke, Baby." your smile widens as you look at him from across the table.

"Amor, this is simply the best thing you've ever made," he says in astonishment.

"Ale, honey, you say that every time i make it," you laugh softly and take a bite of your food, eating at a slower pace than Alejandro so you don't choke.

"And I mean it every time," he says seriously around mouthful of food, manners fully forgotten as he savors every bite.

Later that evening, after everything's been cleaned and leftovers are put in the fridge, you and Alejandro sit on the couch, watching a random western movie he had put on, neither of you paying any mind to it as you lay in each others arms, talking about your days and what you did. His fingers run through your hair as you cuddle into his chest under the fuzzy blanket draped over both of you. With his other hand, he slowly runs his hand up and down your back under your shirt, his nails grazing comfortingly over your soft skin.

"i love you, Ale," you say softly, placing a kiss to his jawline.

"I love you more, mi amor," Alejandro responds with a grin, placing a kiss to your lips.

The two of you spend the rest of the night cuddled up on the couch, simply basking in the comfort you bring each other, never more content than in this moment.

[acocktailmoment]

Venom !

Ingredients:

2 parts premium vodka (20ml)

1 part blue curaçao (10 ml)

1 part fresh lime juice or orange juice (10 ml)

Garnish with Orange or Passion Fruit Half

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Venom Cocktail Drink in Cocktail Shaker

Recipe: Prep Time: 5 minutes

Preparing the Interplay Shaker:

Start by filling the Interplay Shaker  with ice to create an ideal chilling environment for your cocktail ingredients.

Introducing Premium Vodka:

Pour precisely 2 parts of premium vodka into the shaker. This premium spirit forms the foundation of the Venom Cocktail, providing strength and a subtle creamy sweetness to the concoction.

Adding Mesmerizing Blue Curaçao;

Incorporate 1 part of blue curaçao into the mix. This addition not only contributes to the cocktail’s captivating blue color but also infuses it with vibrant citrusy and orange notes, creating a visually appealing and flavorful combination.

Balancing with Fresh Lime or Orange Juice;

Squeeze in 1 part of fresh lime or orange juice to bring a burst of citrusy sharpness to the mix. This step is crucial for achieving a well-balanced flavor profile, ensuring that the sweetness is complemented by a refreshing zing.

Energetic Shaking Session:

Seal the Interplay shaker tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for approximately 15 seconds. This vigorous shaking process is essential for thoroughly blending the ingredients and achieving the desired texture and temperature.

Strain into a Chilled Glass:

Once the mixture is well-shaken, use the shaker’s built-in strainer to elegantly pour the vibrant liquid into a previously chilled glass. This final step ensures that your Venom Cocktail Drink is not only visually enticing but also served at an optimal temperature for an enjoyable sipping experience.

Garnishing Options:

Enhance the allure of your Venom Cocktail Recipe with creative garnishing options. Consider rimming the glass with black salt for an extra touch of darkness. Drop a few fresh blackberries or a twist of lime into the glass for a visually striking presentation.

Courtesy: Interplay Concepts

This article was not sponsored or supported by a third-party. A Cocktail Moment is not affiliated with any individuals or companies depicted here.

[kaijuno]

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Street Corn:

2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 tablespoon sour cream

1 teaspoon lime juice

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1/4 cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled

Fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Rice:

2 cups cooked white or brown rice

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Toppings (optional):

Sliced avocado or guacamole

Diced tomatoes

Sliced jalapeños

Extra crumbled cotija cheese

Lime wedges

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Cook the Chicken:

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Let the chicken rest, then slice into thin strips.

Prepare the Street Corn:

If using fresh corn, grill the cobs until charred, then cut off the kernels. For frozen or canned corn, heat in a skillet.

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and cotija cheese. Stir in the warm corn and cilantro until fully coated.

Prepare the Rice:

In a bowl, toss the cooked rice with lime juice and cilantro.

Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cilantro-lime rice into bowls. Top with sliced chicken and a portion of the street corn.

Add optional toppings like avocado, tomatoes, jalapeños, extra cheese, and lime wedges.

Serve:

Serve warm with extra lime wedges for a fresh squeeze of citrus. Enjoy!

This vibrant and zesty dish is perfect for a fresh, satisfying meal!

[najia-cooks]

[ID: A large bowl filled with rice noodles, julienned carrot and cucumber, piles of herbs, and grilled 'chicken' strips; a bowl of sauce with minced chili and garlic is to the side. End ID]

Bún sườn nướng chay (Vietnamese rice noodle salad)

This is a vegetarian ("chay") version of bún gà nướng, a Vietnamese rice noodle ("bún") salad with grilled chicken ("gà nướng"). Chewy rice noodles, fresh vegetables and herbs, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce combine with grilled or pan-seared 'chicken' to create a rich, flavorful, well-rounded dish. A marinade of lemongrass, sugar, garlic, and vegetarian fish sauce caramelizes around the 'chicken' as it sears, creating a sweet-and-savory crispy coating that perfectly complements the bright, herbacious salad. This dish can be made with Vietnamese sườn non chay, or with any meat substitute you have on hand.

Recipe under the cut!

Patreon | Tip jar

Serves 4.

Ingredients:

For the nước chấm (dipping sauce):

1/2 cup water

Juice of 1 lime (2 Tbsp)

2 Tbsp rice vinegar

1/4 cup vegan fish sauce

3 Tbsp sugar

1 red chili (de-seeded and sliced)

3 cloves garlic, minced

Fish sauce doesn’t take “like” fish, merely fermented and intensely salty. You can buy a bottle of ready-made vegan fish sauce from a Southeast Asian brand such as Au Lac, or you can make your own by combining the following ingredients:

For the vegan fish sauce (nước mắm):

3 Tbsp liquid from a jar of fermented bean curd

1 Tbsp white miso paste

1 Tbsp light soy sauce

1/4 tsp salt

For the chicken (gà):

300g vegan chicken substitute (I used Gardein), or 100g sườn non chay

2 cloves garlic

1 stalk lemongrass (or substitute lemon zest or a bit of preserved lemon pulp)

Juice of 1 lime (2 Tbsp)

1 Tbsp vegan fish sauce

1 Tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce

1 Tbsp Vietnamese soy sauce

2 tsp vegetarian 'chicken' broth concentrate, or bột nêm chay (optional)

2 Tbsp brown sugar

1 Tbsp neutral oil

Sườn non chay may be found in bags online or at your local Asian grocery–the bags will be labelled “sườn non chay” as well as “vegan meat slice,” “textured soy bean protein,” “vegetarian food,” or “vegan food.”

Bột nêm is a Vietnamese seasoning sold in powder or granule form. Vegetarian (“chay”) versions of the seasoning may contain shiitake mushroom, lotus seeds, carrots, tomatoes, and kohlrabi, as well as salt and MSG. It can be purchased in pouches or boxes from an Asian grocery store, or you can use any other vegetable stock powder.

For the salad:

300g vermicelli rice noodles

2 cups bean sprouts

1 large carrot (julienned)

1 seedless cucumber (julienned)

6 leaves romaine lettuce (julienned)

1 bunch fresh cilantro

1 bunch fresh rau răm (Vietnamese mint), or mint

2 stalks green onion, sliced

Handful of peanuts

Fresh Vietnamese herbs can be found in the refrigerator section of an Asian grocery store, particularly one that specializes in southeast Asian food. You can also experiment with whatever leafy herbs you have on hand.

Instructions:

For the chicken:

1. (If using sườn non chay:) soak meat slices in cool water until rehydrated. Squeeze out excess water and cut each slice in half along its shortest dimension, to get two blocks of the original height and width.

2. Slice lemongrass. Peel away any tough, dry outer leaves to reveal the yellow-green leaves within. Remove the root end of each stalk, as well as the tough green portion at the top of each stalk (reserve this latter to boil in stocks). Thinly slice the tender yellow portion of each stalk.

3. Mix all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Marinate chicken for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the nước chấm and vegetables.

4. Remove the chicken from the bowl, leaving any excess marinade behind. Heat a couple teaspoons of oil on medium in a large pan then sear the chicken, turning once, until deeply golden brown on both sides (or use a charcoal grill). (If using a pan) filter marinade to remove lemongrass slices, then pour extra marinade over the chicken and cook, stirring often, until coated.

5. Cut chicken into strips, or as desired.

For the nước chấm:

1. Mix vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Heat, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved.

2. Remove from heat and add minced garlic and chili. Pour into a bowl and allow to cool.

For the salad:

1. Boil the vermicelli according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cool water to halt cooking. Toss with a little bit of neutral oil to avoid sticking.

2. Roast peanuts in a dry pan on medium-low, stirring often, until golden brown and fragrant.

3. Julienne carrot, cucumber, and lettuce. Roughly chop herbs.

4. Plate vermicelli followed by vegetables, herbs, chicken, and peanuts. Spoon some nước chấm over the salad and set remainder to the side to serve.