How to Make a Thai-style Mung Bean Salad
Thai-style mung bean salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavor of mung beans with vibrant herbs and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish. Follow this easy recipe to make a delicious Thai-style mung bean salad at home.
Ingredients
To prepare a Thai-style mung bean salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup mung beans
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 small handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
Dressing Ingredients
For the dressing, you will need:
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mung Beans
Start by rinsing the mung beans under cold water. In a pot, combine the mung beans with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Once cooked, drain and let them cool.
Step 2: Mix the Vegetables
While the mung beans are cooling, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, chopped green onions, and cilantro. This mix will provide a colorful and crunchy texture to your salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), sugar, minced garlic, and chopped red chili. Ensure the sugar is dissolved completely to balance out the flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the mung beans have cooled, add them to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix everything gently until well combined. Be careful not to mash the mung beans.
Step 5: Serve
Your Thai-style mung bean salad is ready to serve! For an added crunch, sprinkle the roasted peanuts on top just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and can be served at room temperature or chilled. It’s an excellent dish for picnics, BBQs, or as a side for any main course.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding avocado, cherry tomatoes, or any other fresh vegetables you like.
- For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken or tofu.
- This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it's best served fresh to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.
Enjoy your homemade Thai-style mung bean salad, bursting with fresh flavors and healthy ingredients!