Craving a vibrant and refreshing taste of Thailand? Look no further than Yum Talay, a delightful seafood salad bursting with flavour and texture. This iconic Thai dish is a celebration of the sea, combining succulent shrimp, squid, and fish with a zesty lime dressing, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant herbs. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty makes Yum Talay an irresistible appetizer or light meal, ideal for a hot summer day or a vibrant dinner party. Its relatively quick preparation time doesn't compromise on flavour, making it a surprisingly accessible dish for home cooks.
Beyond its deliciousness, Yum Talay offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Thailand. This recipe provides a straightforward approach to mastering this classic dish, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create your own unforgettable Yum Talay.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Julienne peeler
- Knife
- Bowl
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- Cuttlefish balls
- Shrimp (deveined and peeled)
- Squid (frozen or fresh)
- Carrot
- Green onions
- Thai pepper
- Garlic
- Shallot
- Tomatoes
- Red and green bell peppers
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Onion (yellow, white, or red)
- Fresh mint
- Fresh cilantro
- Crab paste
- Bean oil
- Fish sauce
- Lemongrass
- Lime
- Sugar
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Prepare the seafood by boiling water in a pot on high heat. Once boiling, add seafood and stir. Cook for about 30 seconds until fish balls float to the top. Remove seafood, shake off excess water, and set aside to cool.
- julienne the carrot, slice green onions lengthwise, thinly slice Thai pepper, garlic, shallot, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Thinly slice kaffir lime leaves. Thinly slice onion.
- Chop mint and cilantro.
Step 2. Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, combine lime juice, crab paste, fish sauce, sugar, thinly sliced lemongrass. Taste and adjust to preference.
Step 3. Combine Seafood and Dressing
- Add the cooked seafood to the sauce and toss well to coat.
Step 4. Add Vegetables and Herbs
- Add all the prepared vegetables to the seafood and sauce mixture. Toss gently.
- Add herbs, gently mix, and transfer to a serving dish.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood and vegetables.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the seafood in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to swap out shrimp, squid, or fish for other seafood you enjoy, such as mussels, scallops, or even crab meat. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of chilies you add. Start with less and add more to your liking. You can also use milder chili varieties or omit them altogether for a milder salad.
With its vibrant flavors and refreshing taste, this Yum Talay recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and delightful balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty in every bite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the authentic taste of Thailand!