Recipe: Filipino Labanos Salad

One of the many dishes that I tried while in The Philippines last year was something called Ensaladang Labanos; literally Radish Salad. It is often referred to as just "Labanos Salad." If you are a fan of vinegary snacks, this one is definitely a winner. In The Philippines they make it with white radish. But I have modified it with Red Radish since it is more common here, and I always have them in my refrigerator. The great thing about Labanos is that it is quick to make, great for a snack or a side, and it is really healthy. The key to Labanos is that the lime juice does most of the work. Lime juice and it's Filipino cousin Calamansi juice will change the chemical composition of food almost like cooking. There are, in fact, some sushi recipe's from South America that depend heavily upon the unique property of lime in "cooking" raw fish. As for Labanos, you could almost call it a Filipino version of Kimchi, without the fermentation. Hope you all enjoy this recipe and give it a try.

Ingredients:

3-4 Large Red Radish, or ½ Medium-sized White Radish

½ Yellow Onion

2-3 T Lime Juice, or Calamansi

½ T Ground Black Pepper

2-3 T Vinegar

Pinch of Sugar

Instructions:

Chop onion. Thinly slice the radish(es). Combine onion and radish in a bowl. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture. Pour vinegar into the mixture. Grind the pepper over all. Add pinch of sugar. Stir ingredients vigorously. Chill and give lime juice at least 2-3 hours to infuse the onions and radish. Serve as a side or snack. Serves 1-2.

Optional:

For a dash of extra Asian flavor, also add a teaspoon of Ginger and a dash of Soy Sauce.