Craving a vibrant, flavorful salad that's both quick to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this delicious Thai Pork Salad recipe! This isn't your average lettuce-and-tomato affair; we're talking succulent grilled pork tossed in a zesty lime dressing, punctuated by crunchy vegetables and fragrant herbs. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more. It's the ideal dish for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a flavorful appetizer that's sure to impress.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this Thai Pork Salad is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks. The bold flavors and fresh ingredients shine through in every bite, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Ready to create this delicious masterpiece? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet or frying pan
Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin: 1
- Seasoning soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Black soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Chicken bouillon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cabbage: 8 cups (about half a large cabbage)
- Celery: 1 stalk
- Jalapeño pepper: 1 whole
- Red onion: 1/4 of a medium red onion
- Carrot: 1 small
- Cilantro: 3 tablespoons (small handful)
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Lime juice: 3 tablespoons
- Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Chili oil: 1 teaspoon
- Roasted peanuts: 3 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prep
- Cut the pork tenderloin into half-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the pork with seasoning soy sauce, black soy sauce, black pepper, and chicken bouillon. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Thinly slice the cabbage, celery, jalapeño, red onion, and shred the carrot. Chop the cilantro finely.
Step 2. Make the Dressing & Cook the Pork
- In a bowl, whisk together fish sauce, seasoning soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and chili oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Heat a skillet over high heat. Add a little vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated pork and sear for 1 minute per side. Reduce heat and cook for another 5 minutes, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced pork, cabbage, celery, jalapeño, red onion, carrot, and cilantro. Add the salad dressing and roasted peanuts. Toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- If you don't like pork, substitute with beef or chicken. Pork tenderloin is a quick and easy option because it doesn't require long marinating times.
- Black soy sauce adds color and a caramel-like sweetness to the marinade.
- Some jalapeños are spicier than others; adjust the amount to your preference.
- When cooking the pork, ensure the pan is very hot before adding the meat to achieve a good sear.
- The salad dressing should be sour, salty, and slightly sweet. Adjust the lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar to your liking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this Thai Pork Salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components (pork, dressing, veggies) separately ahead of time and assemble just before serving. Avoid adding the dressing until ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
2. What can I substitute for the pork?
Chicken or tofu are great substitutes! Adjust cooking time as needed. For tofu, press it to remove excess water before grilling or pan-frying.
This Thai Pork Salad recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavor. Enjoy the satisfying crunch, the zesty dressing, and the perfect harmony of tastes in every bite. Now go ahead and make your own delicious and refreshing Thai Pork Salad!