The Original "SUMI SALAD" is My Mom's Recipe

Have you ever seen "SUMI SALAD" on a menu at a restaurant?

So, here's the story behind the original Sumi Salad: my mom, Sumi, is very creative and innovative - if there's a problem, she'll find a solution.  She changed up the traditional Chinese salad to address a couple "problems" when preparing to take to gatherings.

Problem 1: The traditional recipes call for lettuce, which quickly wilts and must be quickly served as soon as the dressing is mixed in.  

Solution:  Use cabbage - stays fresh and crispy for a longer period of time than lettuce.

Problem 2:  time.  The traditional recipe called for rice noodles to be quick fried and sprinkled on top right before serving.  The fried noodles not only added calories, it added preparation time.  

Solution: Use Top Ramen noodles - which could be crushed and sprinkled on top of the salad just before serving for that crunch that completes the salad experience and without the additional calories. 

So many enjoyed my mom’s version of the Chinese salad that when her grand-daughter’s school in Santa Barbara was asking for original recipes to include in their fundraiser cookbook in the early 1980’s, she provided them with her original recipe:  “SUMI SALAD”.

And there you have it! 

The origin of the SUMI SALAD!  from the kitchen of Sumiko Endow of West Los Angeles. 
Thanks MOM!  You're the BEST!

 For your enjoyment, the original recipe:

• 3/4 C. sugar
• 3/4 C. rice vinegar
• 3/4 C. vegetable oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 T. dry mustard
• 1/4 C. sliced almonds
• 1/4 C. sesame seeds
• 8 stalks chopped green onion
• 1 head cabbage, sliced
• 2 packages of ramen noodles, crushed into 1" size pieces

Mix first 6 ingredients for dressing.

Toss into the sliced cabbage.

Top it with the sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and chopped green onion

Just before serving, sprinkle the ramen noodles on top.

Option:  Add cooked chicken.  Toss the chicken pieces into the salad before garnishing.

ENJOY & SHARE!  You're creating a memorable moment for lasting memorable connections.