Larb salad
Thai cuisine offers an array of exciting flavors, and one of its most refreshing and popular dishes is the Larb Salad. This tasty salad has its origins in Laos and Northeastern Thailand, and it is made using minced meat, fresh herbs, and spicy chilies. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a true delight for both your taste buds and your senses.
Larb Salad is a versatile dish that can be made with different types of meat, such as chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu. The most important ingredient in this dish is the minced meat, which should have a fine and delicate texture that allows it to absorb all the flavors of the seasoning. The traditional seasoning for Larb Salad includes fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and roasted ground rice. These ingredients add a sweet, sour, and salty taste to the dish, which is balanced perfectly by the fresh herbs and veggies.
The Larb Salad is a popular street food in Thailand and Laos, and it is also served in many Thai restaurants around the world. It is a light and healthy meal that is perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake. The salad is low in fat, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals. It is also gluten-free and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary requirements.
The key to making a good Larb Salad is to select fresh and flavorful ingredients. The meat should be lean and finely minced, while the vegetables should be crisp and colorful. The herbs should be fragrant and aromatic, and the seasoning should be well-balanced. To make the dish even more delicious, you can add some extra toppings, such as crispy fried shallots, sliced cucumber, or chopped peanuts.
To make a traditional Thai Larb Salad, start by preparing the meat. In a wok or skillet, heat some oil and add the minced meat. Cook the meat until it is browned and cooked through, then remove it from the heat and let it cool. In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat with the seasoning ingredients, including fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and roasted ground rice. Toss the ingredients together until the meat is well-coated, then add the fresh herbs and vegetables.
The herbs and vegetables used in a Larb Salad can vary depending on the region and personal preference. Some popular herbs used in this dish include mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. The vegetables can include shredded carrots, sliced red onions, and fresh green beans. Toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined, and garnish with some extra herbs and toppings.
In conclusion, the Thai Larb Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. It is easy to make, and the combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder taste, this salad can be adjusted to suit your preferences. So why not try making a Larb Salad today and discover the wonders of Thai cuisine?
Ingredients:
1 lb. ground chicken 1 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 tbsp. fish sauce 2 tbsp. lime juice 1 tbsp. palm sugar 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves 1/4 cup chopped green onions 1/4 cup chopped red onions 2 tbsp. roasted rice powder 1 head of lettuce 1/2 cup sliced cucumber 1/2 cup sliced carrot 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
Directions:
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Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
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In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, chopped green onions, chopped red onions, and roasted rice powder. Mix well.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
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To serve, arrange lettuce leaves on a platter. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves. Top each serving with sliced cucumber, sliced carrot, and roasted peanuts.
Enjoy your delicious Thai Larb Salad!