How to Make Thai-Style Crispy Rice Salad (Yam Naem Khao Tod)
If you’re looking to try a unique and flavorful dish, Thai-Style Crispy Rice Salad, also known as Yam Naem Khao Tod, is an excellent choice. This salad combines crispy rice, savory ingredients, and a delightful tangy dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Below is a simple guide on how to prepare this delicious Thai dish.
Ingredients
To make Yam Naem Khao Tod, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old, cooled)
- 1/2 cup ground pork or chicken, cooked
- 1/2 cup Thai sour sausage (naem), sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked and shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and green onions)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar is preferred)
- 1-2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- Veggies for garnish (like lettuce or cucumber slices)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Thai-style crispy rice salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start with cooled jasmine rice. It’s best to use rice that has been refrigerated overnight, as it will firm up and make it easier to fry. Break apart any clumps with your fingers to ensure it fries evenly.
Step 2: Fry the Rice
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cooled rice in small batches, pressing it down to form a flat layer. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove the crispy rice from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground pork or chicken, sliced Thai sour sausage, cooked carrots, fresh herbs, and crushed peanuts. Mix everything gently to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chopped bird's eye chilies. Taste for seasoning and adjust according to your preference. You can add a little more sugar or lime juice depending on your taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss gently to coat all the ingredients well. Finally, add the crispy rice on top right before serving to maintain its crunch.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Thai-Style Crispy Rice Salad on a platter or individual plates, garnished with additional herbs, lettuce, or cucumber slices. Enjoy this vibrant dish as an appetizer, snack, or a light meal!
Tips for Perfect Yam Naem Khao Tod
- Ensure your rice is dry and cold for the crispiest results.
- Use a mix of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding fewer or more chilies.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with tofu or additional vegetables.
Yam Naem Khao Tod is a delightful dish that offers a fantastic mix of textures and flavors, making it a great addition to any meal. Enjoy preparing and sharing this vibrant Thai salad with family and friends!