Authentic Thai Pork Larb: Juicy, Fragrant, & Flavorful Recipe

Updated at: 21/05/2025

Traditional Thai Larb is more than just a dish; it's a culinary experience. This vibrant salad, typically featuring minced pork, explodes with a captivating symphony of flavors – the fragrant lime, the fiery chili, the herbaceous mint and cilantro, all perfectly balanced against the savory richness of the meat. Its unique texture, a delightful blend of tender pork and crisp vegetables, is both refreshing and satisfying. A true taste of Thailand, Larb is deceptively simple yet incredibly rewarding to make, promising a culinary adventure for even seasoned cooks.

This authentic recipe emphasizes traditional techniques and ingredients, ensuring an unparalleled taste of authentic Thai Larb. Forget the pre-packaged mixes and discover the joy of creating this flavorful masterpiece from scratch. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's delve into the step-by-step process of crafting your own unforgettable Traditional Pork Larb.

Tools Needed

  • Mortar and pestle
  • Frying pan
  • Pot

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Aromatics and Marinate the Pork

  • Marinate the pork with seasoning powder, MSG, and white sugar. Knead and massage well for tenderness.
  • Roast the dried chilies until fragrant and browned. Set aside.
  • Roast shallots, garlic, and lemongrass in a pan with a little water until fragrant.
  • Pound the roasted chilies, shallots, garlic, and lemongrass together.
Marinate the pork with seasoning powder, MSG, and white sugar. Knead and massage well for tenderness.Roast the dried chilies until fragrant and browned. Set aside.Roast shallots, garlic, and lemongrass in a pan with a little water until fragrant.Pound the roasted chilies, shallots, garlic, and lemongrass together.
Prepare the Aromatics and Marinate the Pork

Step 2. Cook the Pork and Combine Ingredients

  • Boil or parboil the marinated pork in hot water until it changes color. Don't overcook.
  • Add the pounded ingredients, tamarind juice, MSG, seasoning powder, white sugar, fish sauce, and chili powder to the cooked pork.
  • Mix everything thoroughly with gloved hands until well combined.
Boil or parboil the marinated pork in hot water until it changes color. Don't overcook.Add the pounded ingredients, tamarind juice, MSG, seasoning powder, white sugar, fish sauce, and chili powder to the cooked pork.Mix everything thoroughly with gloved hands until well combined.
Cook the Pork and Combine Ingredients

Step 3. Finish and Garnish

  • Add roasted rice powder (a small amount).
  • Garnish with chopped shallots, green chilies, spring onions, and coriander.
Add roasted rice powder (a small amount).Garnish with chopped shallots, green chilies, spring onions, and coriander.
Finish and Garnish

Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe

Tips

  • Massaging the pork ensures tenderness.
  • Roasting ingredients with water instead of oil helps prevent burning.
  • Don't overcook the pork; it should be just cooked through.
  • Adjust the amount of tamarind juice and chili powder to your liking.
  • Use a small amount of roasted rice powder to avoid a dry or soggy texture.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use ground pork instead of minced pork?

Yes, ground pork works well, but minced pork provides a slightly better texture. Make sure it's not too finely ground.

2. What can I substitute for fish sauce if I don't have any?

Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but it won't give the exact same flavor. You might need to add a pinch of salt to compensate for the difference.


So there you have it – your own delicious bowl of authentic Thai Pork Larb! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfying crunch of this classic dish. From now on, you can easily recreate this taste of Thailand whenever you like.