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Liang Ban Tu Dou Si (Cold Shredded Potato Salad)

Liang ban tu dou si, or cold shredded potato salad, is a refreshing and tangy dish commonly enjoyed in northern and northeastern China. This salad showcases the versatility of potatoes by highlighting their crisp texture when lightly blanched and dressed in a flavorful mix of vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil. It's a simple yet bold dish that balances heavier dishes with its light and tangy flavors. The preparation emphasizes fresh ingredients and quick cooking, making it a popular choice for home cooks. 

Recipe Servings: 4

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal

Ingredients

  • 2 medium potatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g), peeled
  • 1 tsp (5 g) salt
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) light soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) Chinese black vinegar or rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) chili oil (adjust to taste)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ tsp (2 g) sugar
  • 1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
  • 2 Tbsp (30 g) scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp (15 g) cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

  1. Peel the potatoes and julienne them into thin matchstick-sized strips. Use a mandoline slicer for uniformity if available.
  2. Place the shredded potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to remove excess starch and prevent discoloration. Soak for 5 minutes.
  3. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon (5 g) of salt.
  4. Drain the potatoes from the cold water and add them to the boiling water. Blanch for 1–2 minutes until the potatoes are just tender but still crisp.
  5. Drain immediately and transfer the potatoes to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for 5 minutes and then drain thoroughly.
  6. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, minced garlic, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  7. Combine the blanched potatoes, julienned carrot (if using), and scallions in a large mixing bowl.
  8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  9. Transfer the salad to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
  10. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your spice tolerance.
  • For added crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts over the salad before serving.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to one day, but the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly.