Craving a vibrant explosion of flavor? Look no further than Tam Moo Sadung, the fiery and addictive Spicy Pork Salad that's a staple of Thai street food. This isn't your grandma's salad; prepare for a delicious journey of perfectly balanced sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. The tender, marinated pork is tossed with a medley of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a secret-weapon dressing that will leave you wanting more. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of toasted rice powder mingling with the zesty lime juice and the satisfying crunch of peanuts – a symphony of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand.
This incredible dish, typically found in bustling markets and roadside stalls, is surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Ready to experience the authentic taste of Thailand in your kitchen? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through making your own unforgettable Spicy Pork Salad.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Mortar and pestle
- Plate
Ingredients
- Pork jerky: 200 grams
- Lemongrass
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Lime juice
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Dried chili
- Fresh chili
- Coconut sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Tamarind juice: 1 ladle (diluted)
- Tomatoes
- Eggplant
- Beans
- Long beans
- Limes: 2 wedges
- Fish sauce: 2 ladles (boiled)
- Nua powder: ½ teaspoon
- Boiled bamboo shoots
- Shallots
- Coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork
- Cut the pork jerky into thin slices.
- Boil water over medium heat. Add lemongrass leaves, lime juice, and salt. Add the pork and boil until cooked.
- Remove the pork from the boiling water and set aside. Discard the lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.
- Pound the pork with dried chilies, fresh chilies, coconut sugar, and diluted tamarind juice until well blended. Adjust spiciness to your liking.




Step 2. Combine Ingredients
- Add tomatoes, eggplant, beans, and long beans (as desired).
- Squeeze in lime wedges.
- Add boiled fish sauce, Nua powder, and additional fish sauce. Mix well.



Step 3. Add Remaining Vegetables and Seasoning
- Add boiled bamboo shoots, shallots, and coriander. Mix well.

Step 4. Serve
- Serve on a plate.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves can help calm you down while cooking.
- Adjust the spiciness of the chili to your preference.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Feel free to add more ingredients like long beans according to preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 30-35g
FAQs
1. Can I make the Spicy Pork Salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the pork and vegetables a few hours in advance. Just combine everything right before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
2. What can I substitute for the fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be a substitute, but it won't give the exact same flavour. You might need to add a touch more salt to compensate.
3. How do I adjust the spice level?
Start with less chili and add more to taste. You can also use milder chilies like Thai chilies instead of bird's eye chilies for a less intense heat.
So there you have it – your very own delicious and authentic Spicy Pork Salad. This vibrant dish is a testament to the incredible flavors of Thai cuisine, easily achievable in your own kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying crunch, the delightful heat, and the unforgettable taste of Thailand!