Mouthwatering Meles Salati Recipe

Meles Salati is a delightful dish that tantalizes the taste buds with a mix of savory flavors and creamy textures. This salad features tender pork tongue, which is expertly cooked to perfection, ensuring it is soft and flavorful. Combined with crunchy pickles and tangy marinated mushrooms, this dish offers a perfect balance of tastes. A blend of mayonnaise and sour cream ties the ingredients together, creating a creamy and rich consistency. Seasoned with bay leaves, onions, salt, and pepper, each bite provides a savory experience like no other. Ideal for those looking to explore the culinary world of unique ingredients, this salad is perfect for special occasions or a gourmet treat. It's versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a hearty appetizer. Despite its gourmet flair, it's surprisingly easy to prepare. Prepare to impress your guests with this exquisite and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 uncooked pork tongue (600g)
• 5-7 pickles
• 10 marinated mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sour cream

Spices

• Salt
• Pepper
• Bay leaves
• 1 onion

Preparation Time

• Total time: 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Rinse the Pork Tongue: Start by washing the pork tongue thoroughly.
2. Boil the Tongue: Place the tongue in a pot with water and bring it to a boil.
3. Add Flavors: As the pot begins to boil, remove any foam that appears. Add the peeled whole onion, a couple of bay leaves, and a few peppercorns, along with some salt.
4. Cook Until Tender: Allow the tongue to simmer for at least 2 hours to ensure it becomes tender. Add water as needed to keep it submerged.
5. Prepare for Peeling: Once the tongue is cooked, transfer it to a bowl of cold water for about a minute.
6. Peel the Tongue: After cooling, remove the outer skin layer of the tongue. Trim away any excess fat or tendons.
7. Cool and Slice: Let the tongue cool down to make slicing easier. Cut it into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.
8. Prepare Vegetables: Dice the pickles and marinated mushrooms into small, bite-sized pieces.
9. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced tongue, pickles, and mushrooms.
10. Add Creamy Dressing: Stir in mayonnaise and sour cream.
11. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as desired, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
12. Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
13. Enjoy: Serve the salad cold, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips

• Substitutions: If pork tongue is unavailable, beef tongue can be used as an alternative.
• Texture Variation: For added crunch, include chopped fresh cucumbers.
• Advance Prep: Tongue can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the tongue with grilled portobello mushrooms.
• Low-fat Version: Use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of hot sauce into the dressing for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Course: Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
• As an Appetizer: Pair with artisan cheese and charcuterie board.
• Beverage Pairing: Complements a chilled glass of white wine or a light lager.

Best Places

• The Gourmet Lounge - Known for its exquisite presentation and robust flavors. Location: 123 Flavor Street, Culinary City, Gastronomyland.
• Café del Delight - Offers a variety of unique world cuisines. Location: 456 Savory Avenue, Taste Town, Culinaryland.
• Bistro Aroma - Perfect for a casual yet gourmet dining experience. Location: 789 Aroma Lane, Epicure City, Foodland.
• Epicurean Eats - Famous for using locally sourced ingredients. Location: 101 Fresh Blvd, Flavorville, Gastronomy Nation.
• The Spice Palace - A haven for spice lovers. Location: 202 Spice St, Flavortown, Tastelandia.
• Culinary Enclave - A hidden gem with a focus on modern dishes. Location: 303 Gourmet Way, Delishville, Foodopia.
• Taste Journey Café - Known for its international flair. Location: 404 Savor Road, Culinary Heights, Gourmet Earth.
• Gastronomy Hub - Offers a fusion of traditional and modern flavors. Location: 505 Delicacy Drive, Flavor Ridge, Food Nation.
• Flavors of World Bistro - Showcases a diverse range of cuisines. Location: 606 Taste Ave, Epicurean Summit, Culinary World.
• Café Gourmet Haven - A favorite among locals for its creative dishes. Location: 707 Epicurean Way, Flavour Town, Taste Republic.