How to Make Thai-Style Spicy Clam Salad
Thai-style spicy clam salad, or "Yam Hoi Shell," is a delicious, refreshing dish that combines the natural sweetness of clams with vibrant flavors and spices typical of Thai cuisine. This salad is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, and its unique blend of ingredients makes it a favorite among seafood lovers. Follow these easy steps to create your own Thai-style spicy clam salad at home!
Ingredients
- 500 grams of fresh clams
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped
- 2-3 kaffir lime leaves, finely shredded
- 1-2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Clean the Clams
Start by soaking the clams in water for about an hour. This helps them expel any sand and grit. After soaking, scrub the clams under running water to remove any residue. Rinse thoroughly and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Clams
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and gently add the cleaned clams. Cover the pot and let them steam for about 5-7 minutes or until all the clams have opened. Discard any clams that remain closed. Once cooked, remove the clams from the pot and let them cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the finely chopped Thai bird’s eye chilies to the dressing for that spicy kick.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Once the clams are cool, remove them from their shells (if desired) and place them in a large bowl. Add the sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, lemongrass, and shredded kaffir lime leaves. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
For an additional crunch and flavor, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts over the salad just before serving. Serve your Thai-style spicy clam salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy this refreshing dish that showcases the bold flavors of Thai cuisine!
Tips for the Perfect Thai-Style Spicy Clam Salad
- Ensure your clams are fresh for the best flavor. Look for clams that are tightly closed before cooking.
- Adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies based on your spice preference; less for milder heat, more for an intense kick.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for additional texture.
This Thai-style spicy clam salad is not only easy to make but also a fantastic dish to impress your guests. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and vibrant colors makes it a standout at any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!