Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Laos with this mouthwatering Lap Mu Savory Pork Salad! This isn't just another recipe - it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and fresh ingredients that will make your palate dance with excitement. Whether you're a adventurous foodie or someone looking to spice up your meal routine, this traditional Laotian dish promises to deliver an unforgettable taste experience that's both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Laotian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mint leaves
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 Thai chilies, chopped
- 2 cups lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing herbs, slicing shallots, and chopping Thai chilies finely.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground pork and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until fully browned and no pink remains (approximately 8-10 minutes).
- Remove pork from heat and drain excess fat if necessary. Let the meat cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked ground pork with lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted rice powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Add sliced shallots, chopped mint leaves, cilantro, and Thai chilies to the pork mixture. Gently toss to distribute herbs evenly.
- Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a serving platter as a base for the salad.
- Spoon the seasoned pork mixture over the lettuce leaves, creating an attractive presentation.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately at room temperature.
Tips
- Toasted Rice Powder Trick: For the most authentic flavor, toast your own rice powder by dry-roasting raw rice in a pan until golden brown and then grinding it into a fine powder. This adds a unique nutty depth to the dish.
- Meat Matters: Use fresh ground pork with a moderate fat content (around 80/20) to ensure the meat stays juicy and flavorful when cooked.
- Herb Freshness: Chop herbs like mint and cilantro just before mixing to preserve their vibrant flavors and aromatic qualities.
- Heat Control: Adjust the number of Thai chilies to suit your spice tolerance. Start with one and add more if you like extra heat.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately at room temperature for the best texture and flavor combination. The warm meat contrasts beautifully with the fresh, cool lettuce leaves.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed peanuts or a sprinkle of additional toasted rice powder on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
