Introduction
Larb, or Laab, is a popular dish in Laos and Thailand, often considered the national dish of Laos. It is a flavorful salad made with minced meat, typically chicken, beef, or pork, combined with fresh herbs, lime juice, and toasted rice powder. The dish is known for its vibrant flavors and is usually served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables, making it a refreshing and aromatic meal.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) minced meat (chicken, beef, or pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (see instructions)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, minced (adjust for spice level)
- Salt to taste
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Sticky rice (for serving)
Instructions
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Cook the Meat:
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced meat and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
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Prepare the Toasted Rice Powder:
- To make toasted rice powder, dry roast 2 tablespoons of uncooked sticky rice in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown. Once cooled, grind it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, chopped onion, shallots, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, toasted rice powder, chopped mint, cilantro, and minced chilies. Mix well, adjusting the seasoning with salt and additional lime juice as needed.
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Serve:
- Serve the Larb in a bowl or platter, garnished with additional herbs if desired. Offer lettuce leaves on the side for wrapping and a serving of sticky rice to accompany the dish.
Health Notes
- Larb can be a healthy dish due to its use of fresh herbs and lean meat. However, it can be high in sodium due to the fish sauce. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you are watching your sodium intake. Incorporating plenty of vegetables and serving with sticky rice can balance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Larb is best enjoyed fresh, served with lettuce leaves for wrapping and sticky rice on the side. It pairs well with a light, refreshing salad or fresh vegetable sticks.
Tips
- Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, you can use minced mushrooms or tofu, adjusting the seasoning to suit the ingredients.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the number of chilies based on your spice preference. You can also use milder peppers for a less spicy version.
- Chilling Time: Allow the Larb to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Presentation: Serve Larb on a large platter garnished with additional herbs and lime wedges for a colorful presentation.
