Thai lamb salad
Summary
Whenever I’m yearning for a taste of my travels to Thailand, my go-to is the Thai lamb salad. Remembering the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, this dish feels like a passport to those vibrant streets. Packed with zesty flavors and tender lamb, it’s more than just a salad; it’s an adventure on a plate.
Ingredients
Whenever I pop to the local farmer’s market, I make sure to pick up:
- Fresh lamb steaks: 8 oz (about 227 grams if you’re metrically inclined!)
- A handful or two of mixed salad greens: Roughly 2 cups (60 grams)
- A vibrant red bell pepper: sliced up thinly
- Half a cucumber: I like mine sliced, but you do you!
- A small red onion: whisper-thin slices are the key
- Mint leaves: Fresh from the garden, about 1/4 cup (10 grams)
- Cilantro: Another 1/4 cup (10 grams)
- Juice from a zesty lime
- A dash of fish sauce: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- A sprinkle of brown sugar: 1 tsp (5 grams)
- One feisty red chili: finely chopped and de-seeded for the faint-hearted!
- Peanuts, the unsung hero: 1/4 cup (35 grams), roasted and lovingly crushed
Cooking Time
Grab a podcast or two; this one’s a quickie:
- Total: 20 minutes
Serving Size
Just right for a couple – serves 2.
Nutritional Facts (Per plate)
Keeping it wholesome and nutritious:
- Calories: 320
- Proteins: 25g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fats: 18g
- The nitty-gritty: Cholesterol at 55mg and Sodium around 420mg
How to Whip It Up
- Fire up a grill pan on medium-high, imagining the street-side grills of Bangkok.
- Season those lamb steaks with love (and a bit of salt and pepper).
- Grill ’em good – 3-4 minutes each side. You want them tender and juicy.
- Let the lamb catch its breath for a bit, then slice thinly.
- Toss the salad greens, bell pepper, cucumber, and onion in a big ol’ bowl.
- In a sidekick bowl, whip together the lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and that fiery chili for a dressing that’ll kick!
- Bathe the veggies in the dressing, mix them up.
- Add your lamb slices, let them mingle.
- Finally, sprinkle with mint, cilantro, and those hero peanuts.
Tips from My Kitchen
- Want a creamier dressing? Spoon in some natural yogurt or a splash of coconut milk.
- Customize your fire level – more or less chili, it’s your call.
- Roasting the peanuts? Game-changer. The aroma is intoxicating!
- Letting meat rest isn’t being lazy; it’s sealing in the juices.
Serve It Up!
Scoop your Thai lamb salad into a bowl that’s seen some adventures. A cool herbal tea or a tangy lime soda makes a great sidekick. Every bite, every flavor transports you – from your dining table straight to a Thai sunset. Enjoy this taste tour, brought to you by AH7’s kitchen escapades. Safe travels, food explorers!
Remember that dish you tasted in that small Thai street corner? Well, I tried recreating it and trust me, this is as close as it gets! Dive in and let’s travel together.
FAQS
Q1: What cuts of lamb are best for a Thai lamb salad?
- Ideally, you’d want to use lamb loin or leg steaks. These cuts are tender and perfect for quick cooking, ensuring a juicy result.
Q2: Can I substitute beef or chicken for lamb in this recipe?
- Absolutely! While lamb offers a distinct flavor, beef or chicken can be a great substitute if you prefer those meats or if lamb is unavailable.
Q3: How spicy is this salad, and how can I adjust the heat?
- Traditional Thai salads can be quite spicy. However, you can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the number of chilies. Always taste as you go!
Q4: What are the essential herbs and spices that give this salad its authentic Thai flavor?
- Key ingredients include lemongrass, coriander, mint, fish sauce, and lime juice. These elements contribute to that unique Thai flavor profile.
Q5: Can I make this salad in advance, and how long will it keep in the refrigerator?
- You can prepare the dressing and lamb in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Q6: Are there any specific dressings that complement the flavors of Thai lamb salad?
- A dressing made of lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and fresh chilies complements this salad perfectly, enhancing its vibrant flavors.
Q7: How do I ensure the lamb is tender and not overcooked?
- Cook the lamb over high heat for a short duration. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; medium-rare is around 145°F (63°C).
Q8: Can I add fruits like mango or papaya to this salad?
- Yes, mango and papaya can add a lovely sweet contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the salad.
Q9: What side dishes or beverages pair well with Thai lamb salad?
- Sticky rice or jasmine rice and a cold glass of Thai iced tea or a crisp white wine pair beautifully with this salad.
Q10: Are there vegetarian or vegan alternatives to the Thai lamb salad?
- Certainly! Tofu or tempeh can be a great protein replacement. Just ensure you marinate them well to imbue the Thai flavors.
Thai lamb salad
Nutritions
Ingredients
- Fresh lamb steaks: 8 oz about 227 grams if you’re metrically inclined!
- A handful or two of mixed salad greens: Roughly 2 cups 60 grams
- A vibrant red bell pepper: sliced up thinly
- Half a cucumber: I like mine sliced but you do you!
- A small red onion: whisper-thin slices are the key
- Mint leaves: Fresh from the garden about 1/4 cup (10 grams)
- Cilantro: Another 1/4 cup 10 grams
- Juice from a zesty lime
- A dash of fish sauce: 2 tbsp 30 ml
- A sprinkle of brown sugar: 1 tsp 5 grams
- One feisty red chili: finely chopped and de-seeded for the faint-hearted!
- Peanuts the unsung hero: 1/4 cup (35 grams), roasted and lovingly crushed
Instructions
- Fire up a grill pan on medium-high, imagining the street-side grills of Bangkok.
- Season those lamb steaks with love (and a bit of salt and pepper).
- Grill ’em good – 3-4 minutes each side. You want them tender and juicy.
- Let the lamb catch its breath for a bit, then slice thinly.
- Toss the salad greens, bell pepper, cucumber, and onion in a big ol’ bowl.
- In a sidekick bowl, whip together the lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and that fiery chili for a dressing that’ll kick!
- Bathe the veggies in the dressing, mix them up.
- Add your lamb slices, let them mingle.
- Finally, sprinkle with mint, cilantro, and those hero peanuts.
Notes
Customize your fire level – more or less chili, it’s your call.
Roasting the peanuts? Game-changer. The aroma is intoxicating!
Letting meat rest isn’t being lazy; it’s sealing in the juices. Scoop your Thai lamb salad into a bowl that’s seen some adventures. A cool herbal tea or a tangy lime soda makes a great sidekick. Every bite, every flavor transports you – from your dining table straight to a Thai sunset. Enjoy this taste tour, brought to you by AH7’s kitchen escapades. Safe travels, food explorers!
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