Craving a vibrant and flavorful Thai salad that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than Yam Tua Paep, a beloved Northern Thai dish featuring spicy, fermented soybeans. This authentic recipe delivers a unique blend of textures and tastes, from the slightly tangy fermented beans to the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables and herbs. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple and perfect for weeknight dinners or a flavorful addition to your next gathering.
Yam Tua Paep is far more than just a salad; it’s a culinary journey to the heart of Northern Thailand. Its distinctive fermented soybean base provides a depth of flavor unlike any other salad. This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of ingredients for an authentic and delicious Yam Tua Paep experience. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Green beans: 1 bag
- Peanuts: 1 bag (same amount as green beans)
- Minced pork: 200 grams
- Garlic (Chinese): 4 cloves
- Chili peppers
- Dried galangal
- Shallots
- Fish sauce
- Shrimp paste: 1/2 tablespoon
- Gourami fish: 1 whole
- Salt
- Spring onions
- Coriander
- MSG and seasoning powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Pound the Mixture
- Trim the ends of the green beans and wash them. Boil the green beans for about 10 minutes, then drain.
- Mince the garlic and prepare other ingredients (chili peppers, galangal, shallots) by finely chopping them. The quantities depend on your preference. Pound together the minced pork, garlic, chili peppers, galangal, shallots, fish sauce, shrimp paste and cooked green beans in a mortar and pestle.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook the Pork
- Heat a little oil in a frying pan and fry the garlic until golden yellow and fragrant. Remove the fried garlic and set aside.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the pounded ingredients with the remaining oil until fragrant.
- Add the minced pork and continue to stir-fry until cooked through. Use medium heat.
Step 3. Combine and Season the Salad
- Add the boiled green beans and stir-fry until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt to taste. You can add optional MSG and seasoning powder if desired (but it's not traditional).
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with spring onions and coriander. Top with the fried garlic.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your spice preference.
- Northern Thai food traditionally does not include sugar or MSG, but you can add these to your liking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Where can I find fermented soybeans (tua paep)?
Fermented soybeans (tua paep) can be found at Asian grocery stores, especially those specializing in Thai ingredients. You may also be able to find them online from specialty food retailers.
2. Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chilies to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste. You can also use milder chilies or remove the seeds for less heat.
So there you have it – a delicious and authentic Yam Tua Paep, ready to brighten your table! This easy recipe allows you to experience the unique flavors of Northern Thailand without the fuss. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and textures of this unforgettable spicy bean salad!