Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs carrots, peeled and grated on a fine julienne grater or mandolin
- 1 lb onions, sliced into half circles
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings & Spices
- salt, to taste
- ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup oil (avocado, sunflower, or other neutral oil)
- 1/2 – 1 Tablespoon white vinegar (optional)
- fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), for garnish
Instructions
- Grate Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots using a fine julienne grater or mandolin to create thin strips, providing the signature texture of the salad.
- Cook Onions: Slice the onions into half circles. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions, season with salt, and cook gently for 7-10 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized, infusing the oil with rich flavor.
- Season Carrots: In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots with salt, ground black pepper, sugar, ground coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
- Prepare Garlic Oil: Finely mince or press the garlic cloves and place them at the bottom of a large mixing bowl. Once the onions are done, strain the hot oil through a fine mesh sieve directly over the garlic to infuse it. Optionally, discard the cooked onions or use them in other dishes as they are not part of the salad.
- Combine Salad: Pour the spiced carrot mixture into the bowl with the garlic-infused oil. Add vinegar if using, then mix everything together thoroughly to coat the carrots evenly with the flavorful oil and spices.
- Marinate: For best results, refrigerate the salad for a few hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, mix the salad again to redistribute the marinade and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Storage: Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within one week. Stir well before each serving as the dressing may settle.
Notes
- The cooked onions are used only to flavor the oil and are not included in the salad.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- White vinegar is optional but adds a pleasant tang to balance the sweetness and spice.
- You can use avocado oil, sunflower oil, or any neutral oil suitable for infusing.
- This salad tastes best after marinating for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add color and freshness as a garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian
- Diet: Vegetarian