Crispy Rice Salad
Nam Khao, a traditional Laotian crispy rice salad, combines crispy rice, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It's perfect as a light meal or a side dish.
Equipment
- Non-stick baking sheet
- Large mixing bowls
- Small mixing bowl for dressing
- Whisk
Ingredients
Salad:
- 1 cucumber diced
- A handful of cilantro chopped
- A handful of mint chopped
- 2 shallots or small onions thinly sliced
- 1 chili optional, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup 30g crushed peanuts
Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice 370g
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tbsp salt
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon chili crisp optional
- 1-2 tablespoons water if needed, to thin the dressing
Instructions
Prepare the Rice:
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with red curry paste, oil, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the rice mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice becomes crispy and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cilantro, mint, shallots/onions, chili (if using), and crushed peanuts.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, oil, and chili crisp (if using).
- If the dressing is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the crispy rice to the salad bowl with the vegetables and peanuts.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
For an authentic experience, serve the salad in lettuce wraps.
Adjust the chili level to your spice preference.
For an authentic experience, serve the salad in lettuce wraps.
Adjust the chili level to your spice preference.
Nutrition
Calories: 275kcal