Description
Namtok Nuea is a traditional Thai grilled beef salad featuring juicy steak, fresh herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted rice powder. This vibrant dish is packed with bold, spicy, and tangy flavors that come together to create a refreshing yet satisfying meal perfect for warm weather or as a light dinner.
Ingredients
Beef
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp black pepper
Salad Dressing
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1–2 tbsp Thai chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Salad
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tbsp toasted rice powder
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
Instructions
- Season the steak: In a mixing bowl, combine the flank or sirloin steak with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce and 1 teaspoon of black pepper, coating the meat evenly on all sides for a flavorful base.
- Grill the beef: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4–6 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness, ensuring the meat develops a nice char and remains juicy.
- Rest and slice: Remove steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of lime juice, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1–2 tablespoons of Thai chili flakes. Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spiciness level.
- Toss the salad: Add the thinly sliced steak to the dressing along with the thinly sliced shallots, green onions, chopped cilantro, mint leaves, and toasted rice powder. Toss everything gently to ensure the steak and herbs are evenly coated with the tangy, spicy dressing.
- Serve: Arrange fresh lettuce leaves on a serving platter and pile the dressed beef salad on top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Toasted rice powder is essential for an authentic and traditional flavor—it adds a nutty aroma and texture.
- Traditionally, this dish is served with sticky rice to complement the salad’s vibrant flavors.
- Adjust the amount of Thai chili flakes depending on how spicy you prefer your salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
