Larb Gai, also known as Thai Chicken Salad, is a flavorful, vibrant dish that has its roots in the northeastern region of Thailand. This dish is a quintessential part of authentic Thai cuisine, celebrated for its perfect balance of tangy, salty, spicy, and savory flavors. With its fresh herbs and bold seasonings, Larb Gai has become a must-try for anyone wanting to explore easy Thai recipes at home.
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Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Thai food or just dipping your toes into the world of exotic cuisines, this dish is delightfully simple and packed with irresistible flavor. Not to mention, it’s quick to make, making it the ideal go-to for healthy lunches, dinners, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
What Makes Larb Gai Special?
Larb Gai is more than just a chicken salad. It’s a cultural experience and a reflection of Thai culinary artistry. Traditionally served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables, Larb Gai is not just about the ingredients—it’s about achieving harmony between contrasting flavors and textures. This dish also happens to be naturally gluten-free and can easily be tailored to different spice preferences, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Now, let's roll up our sleeves and prepare this authentic Larb Gai recipe.
Ingredients for Larb Gai (Serves 4)
To achieve the authentic taste of Thai Chicken Salad, here’s what you'll need:
For the Chicken Mixture
- 500g (1 lb) ground chicken or finely chopped chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or neutral cooking oil)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock or water
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (can be homemade or store-bought)
- 1-2 bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (traditional but essential for that umami punch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar is preferred but white sugar works too)
For Garnish and Serving
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Lettuce leaves, cabbage, or cucumber slices for serving
- Sticky rice or jasmine rice (optional, as a side)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Toasted Rice Powder
Toasted rice powder adds a unique nutty flavor and texture to Larb Gai. You can prepare it at home by dry-roasting uncooked white rice (preferably glutinous or sticky rice) in a pan over medium heat until golden brown. Then, grind it into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or blender.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the ground chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked and no pink remains.
- Pour in the chicken stock or water to keep the meat moist. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Adjust to taste (it should be a blend of salty, tangy, and slightly sweet).
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the sliced red onion, chopped green onions, toasted rice powder, and bird’s eye chilies.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Gently fold in the fresh mint leaves and cilantro to finish.
- Serve the Larb Gai warm or at room temperature, alongside lettuce leaves, cabbage, or cucumber slices. For a heartier meal, pair with sticky rice or jasmine rice.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spice Level: Larb Gai is traditionally spicy, but don’t hesitate to reduce or increase the chilies based on your preference. For less heat, use sliced mild red chilies or skip them altogether.
- Protein Variations: While chicken is the most common, you can substitute it with ground turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Make it Ahead: Prep the dressing, rice powder, and garnish in advance. Then, cook the chicken just before serving for maximum freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Larb Gai shines as a light, standalone dish but can also complement a range of Thai-inspired meals. Serve it as part of a full Thai-style dinner alongside dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, or Green Curry. You can also make it a low-carb option by wrapping the seasoned chicken in crisp lettuce leaves or cabbage cups.
For drinks, pair it with Thai Iced Tea or a refreshing cucumber cooler to balance the bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Larb Gai Recipe
This easy Thai recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. It requires only a few staple ingredients, comes together in under 30 minutes, and is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The toasted rice powder adds a signature texture, while the bright herbs create an irresistible aroma.
Take a bite of this Thai Chicken Salad, and you’ll instantly understand why Larb Gai is not just a dish—it’s a celebration of Thai passion for bold and dynamic flavors. Whether you're making it for yourself or sharing it with family and friends, this recipe promises to transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
Enjoy your Larb Gai and savor the authentic tastes of Thailand in every bite!
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