Description
Authentic Thai Laab Moo is a vibrant and flavorful minced pork salad bursting with fresh herbs, tangy lime juice, spicy chili, and aromatic toasted rice powder. Traditionally served warm or at room temperature, this dish is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors, commonly enjoyed with fresh raw vegetables and sticky rice on the side.
Ingredients
Laab Moo
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 tbsp water or pork broth
- 1–2 tbsp fresh lime juice (to taste)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1–2 tsp Thai chili flakes (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup shallots, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Toasted Rice Powder (Khao Khua)
- 2 tbsp uncooked sticky rice or jasmine rice
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Toast rice in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant. Allow it to cool slightly, then grind into a coarse powder. Set aside.
- Cook the Pork: In a skillet over medium heat, add ground pork and water or broth. Cook while breaking up the pork with a spoon until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove from heat.
- Season the Pork: While the pork is still warm, add fresh lime juice, fish sauce, Thai chili flakes, and sugar. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Add Toasted Rice Powder: Incorporate the toasted rice powder into the mixture and mix well to combine and add a slightly nutty texture.
- Fold in Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in thinly sliced shallots, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves to add fresh and aromatic notes.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve the bright, well-balanced flavor typical of Laab Moo. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Laab Moo should have a bright and balanced flavor—adjust lime juice and chili flakes according to your spice and tartness preference.
- Traditionally served with raw vegetables such as cabbage, cucumber, and green beans for added crunch and freshness.
- Sticky rice is commonly served alongside Laab Moo to complement the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Meat & Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
