Vietnamese jellyfish salad (gỏi sứa) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Vietnam Servings: Serves 4
Vietnam Servings: Serves 4Vietnamese Jellyfish Salad, or Gỏi Sứa, is a vibrant and refreshing seafood dish that hails from the coastal regions of Vietnam. This salad is known for its unique texture and delightful crunch, provided by the jellyfish—the star ingredient. Traditionally enjoyed during hot summer days, Gỏi Sứa combines jellyfish with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy fish sauce dressing. The dish is a celebration of contrasts: cool and spicy, crunchy and soft, all tied together by the umami-rich dressing.
Ingredients
- dried jellyfish – 200 g / 7 oz
- cucumbers – 2 medium, thinly sliced
- carrots – 1 large, julienned
- red onion – 1 small, thinly sliced
- fresh mint leaves – 30 g / 1 oz
- fresh cilantro – 30 g / 1 oz
- roasted peanuts – 50 g / 1.75 oz, crushed
- fresh lime juice – 3 tablespoons
- fish sauce – 3 tablespoons
- sugar – 2 teaspoons
- bird’s eye chili – 1, finely sliced
- garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Instructions
- Rinse the dried jellyfish thoroughly to remove excess salt. Soak in cold water for 1-2 hours, changing the water several times, until the jellyfish are properly hydrated and no longer salty.
- Drain the jellyfish and slice into thin strips.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced jellyfish, cucumbers, carrots, red onion, mint leaves, and cilantro.
- In another bowl, mix lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, bird’s eye chili, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine all the flavors.
- Top the salad with crushed peanuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Substitutions
- fish sauce -> soy sauce
- roasted peanuts -> toasted sesame seeds
- bird’s eye chili -> jalapeño
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the jellyfish in a bit of the dressing to enhance its flavor.
- Add fresh Thai basil for an aromatic twist.
- Incorporate shredded green papaya or mango for added texture and flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
