Larb Noodle Salad

A Refreshing Ground Meat Salad with Rice Vermicelli

 

his delightful salad features ground meat served on a bed of rice vermicelli, topped with fresh herbs and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe serves 2 people, making it an ideal option for a quick and delicious meal at home.

 

What is Larb?

Larb (or Laab) is a traditional dish hailing from the Isaan region of Thailand, celebrated for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients. Typically made with ground meat, Larb is seasoned with fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and a medley of herbs, striking a harmonious balance of spicy, sour, and savory tastes. The addition of toasted rice powder gives it a unique texture and nutty flavor. Larb can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice or noodles, making it a versatile and delightful choice.

 

 

Ingredients

For the Salad

• Ground meat: 200 g (about 7 oz; ground chicken, pork, or beef)
• Rice vermicelli noodles: 100 g (about 3.5 oz)
• Shallots: 2 small, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint leaves: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Lime juice: 3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
• Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• Chili flakes: To taste (optional for heat)

For Garnish

• Crushed peanuts: For topping
• Sliced cucumber: For serving
• Lime wedges: For serving

 

How to Make Larb Noodle Salad

Step 1: Cook the Rice Vermicelli

1. Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Cook Noodles: Add the rice vermicelli noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes).
3. Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Meat

1. Cook Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), breaking up any large clumps.
2. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Adjust to taste; aim for a balanced flavor of sour and salty.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground meat with the sliced shallots, chopped mint, and cilantro.
2. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Serve Noodles: Place a portion of rice vermicelli noodles in each bowl.
2. Top with Larb: Generously spoon the larb mixture over the noodles.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and serve with sliced cucumber and lime wedges on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Larb Noodle Salad Recipe

This Larb Noodle Salad recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, but also incredibly flavorful! The combination of ground meat with fresh herbs and zesty dressing creates a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days or whenever you crave something light yet satisfying. Plus, it's easily customizable; feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables!

 

Health Benefits of Larb Noodle Salad

High in Protein: The ground meat provides an excellent source of protein essential for muscle repair and overall health.

Rich in Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.

Low in Carbs: Serving it over rice vermicelli instead of heavier grains keeps the dish light while still filling.

 

Tips for the Perfect Larb Noodle Salad

Meat Options: Experiment with different ground meats like turkey or lamb for varied flavors.

Herb Variations: Add Thai basil or scallions for extra freshness.

Adjusting Spice: Start with a small amount of chili flakes and increase gradually to suit your taste.

 

Conclusion

Indulging in a bowl of homemade Larb Noodle Salad is like experiencing a burst of authentic Thai flavors right in your kitchen! With its fresh ingredients and bold tastes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this easy recipe today for a delicious meal that’s both comforting and exciting!

 

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