What is the best cut of beef for Nam Tok?

Sirloin or flank steak is typically recommended for Nam Tok because they are flavorful and tender when grilled, making them ideal for slicing thinly and incorporating into the salad.

Can I make Nam Tok without fish sauce?

Fish sauce provides a distinct umami flavor that is central to many Thai dishes, including Nam Tok. If you need to substitute, you might consider soy sauce or tamari, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.

The spiciness of Nam Tok can vary based on the amount of chili flakes used. It can be adjusted to suit individual taste preferences by increasing or decreasing the chili flake

What are the health benefits of eating Nam Tok?

Nam Tok is rich in protein from the beef and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals from the fresh herbs and vegetables. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable dish for those on a lower-carb diet. However, it can be high in sodium due to the fish sauce, so it’s wise to consume it in moderation.

Is Nam Tok suitable for a keto diet?

Nam Tok is quite suitable for a ketogenic diet as it is high in protein and fat while being low in carbohydrates. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or garnishes you add are also keto-friendly.

Thai Beef Salad(Nam Tok)

Name: Thai Beef Salad(Nam Tok)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup thinly sliced shallots; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tbsp roasted rice powder; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp palm sugar; 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste); Lettuce leaves for serving; Vegetable oil for grilling

Description

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with our irresistible Thai Beef Salad, Nam Tok. This dish is a harmonious blend of grilled beef marinated in aromatic herbs, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. Each bite is a burst of freshness and spice, capturing the essence of Thai cuisine. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this salad promises to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Get ready to savor the flavors of Southeast Asia in every mouthful!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
1/4 cup thinly sliced shallots
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp roasted rice powder
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp palm sugar
2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
Lettuce leaves for serving
Vegetable oil for grilling

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Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with fish sauce and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.

Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, palm sugar, and Thai bird's eye chilies until the sugar is dissolved.

Grill the Beef: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the steak with vegetable oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled beef, shallots, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, mint, and basil leaves.

Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently until it is well combined.

Serve: Arrange lettuce leaves on a serving platter and top with the Thai Beef Salad. Sprinkle roasted rice powder over the salad for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Meat Selection: Opt for a cut of beef that grills well, such as sirloin or flank steak. These cuts offer a good balance of flavor and tenderness, which is essential for this salad.

Toasting Rice: For an authentic touch, include toasted rice powder. Simply dry roast raw sticky rice (or jasmine rice if unavailable) in a pan until golden, then grind it into a fine powder. This adds a distinctive nutty flavor and crunch to the dish.

Adjustable Heat: The spiciness of Nam Tok can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili flakes. Thai chili flakes are preferred for their authentic flavor, but any type can be used according to your heat preference.

Freshness of Herbs: Use fresh mint and cilantro to ensure the salad retains its vibrant color and crisp textures. These herbs are key to delivering the fresh, aromatic quality that makes Nam Tok so refreshing.

Dressing Balance: Achieve the perfect balance in your dressing by tasting and adjusting the levels of fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. The dressing should be a harmonious blend of salty, sour, and sweet.

Serving Suggestions: Serve Nam Tok on a platter with fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. It can also be accompanied by sticky rice or jasmine rice to make it a more filling meal.

Prep Time: 20min
Cook Time: 8min
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grill
Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

Serving Size: Varies
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 90mg