Soulful Spiced Beef Salad

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Thai Mu Nam Tok is transformed into a soulful dish by incorporating elements of soul food cuisine. The original dish typically uses Thai herbs and spices, while the adapted version infuses the beef with a blend of soulful spices. The salad is also enhanced with soul food-inspired ingredients and flavors, such as the addition of collard greens or mustard greens, and a tangy dressing that complements the spiced beef. We alse have the original recipe for Mu nam tok, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups mixed salad greens 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture onto the beef slices, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the beef slices with vegetable oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, mint, and basil.
4. 4.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and chili flakes (if using) to make the dressing.
5. 5.
   Slice the grilled beef into thin strips and add it to the salad bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. 6.
   Serve the Soulful Spiced Beef Salad immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — For best results, choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin or tenderloin. Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor. If you can't find all the herbs listed, feel free to use a combination of what's available to you.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add sliced fresh chili peppers to the salad.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers to the salad for added crunch and freshness.
• Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences. Add more lime juice for extra tanginess or more brown sugar for sweetness.
• To make it a heartier meal, serve the salad with a side of cornbread or sweet potato fries.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Spiced Beef Salad as a main course for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, placing the grilled beef slices on top. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an eye-catching presentation.