Cold Mixed Houttuynia Cordata

Cold Mixed Houttuynia Cordata

　　Houttuynia cordata, also known as "joint root," is a perennial herbaceous plant named for the fishy smell of its stems and leaves. The whole plant can be used in traditional Chinese medicine. It grows throughout Yichang, mostly in the wild, though some has been cultivated in recent years. It is abundant in spring, with the plumpest and tenderest stems being the best. The common preparation involves cutting the stems into inch-long sections, washing them, and lightly pickling them with a bit of salt, then mixing them with minced ginger, mashed garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, scallion pieces, monosodium glutamate, and other seasonings, and finally drizzling with a little sesame oil. This dish is crisp, tender, fragrant, tangy, spicy, refreshing, and also has the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, and reducing inflammation. It is not only a favorite among the residents of Yichang but has also become a delicacy served at banquets in hotels, and is highly popular with Western food enthusiasts. (Yichang)