Crispy Rice Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Lao dish, Nam khao, is transformed into a vibrant salad by incorporating Northeastern American flavors and ingredients. The original dish typically includes fermented pork, fish sauce, and herbs like cilantro and mint. In this version, those ingredients are replaced with shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for a fresh and crunchy texture. The dressing is also modified to include peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and chili paste, giving it a spicy and tangy twist. We alse have the original recipe for Nam khao, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) cooked jasmine rice, cooled 2 cups (470ml) cooked jasmine rice, cooled
• 1 cup (240ml) shredded cabbage 1 cup (240ml) shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup (120ml) shredded carrots 1/2 cup (120ml) shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup (120ml) diced bell peppers (assorted colors) 1/2 cup (120ml) diced bell peppers (assorted colors)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh mint 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped roasted peanuts 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped roasted peanuts
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) peanut butter 2 tablespoons (30ml) peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili paste 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili paste
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked jasmine rice, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, and roasted peanuts.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, chili paste, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the Crispy Rice Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing chilled or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Use cooled cooked jasmine rice for the best texture and flavor.
• Peanut butter — Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils.
• Chili paste — Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your desired level of spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crunch, you can add some crushed crispy rice noodles on top of the salad.
• Customize the salad by adding other vegetables like cucumber or radishes.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili paste in the dressing.
• Make sure the rice is completely cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients to maintain its crispiness.
• Double the dressing recipe if you prefer a more generous coating on the salad.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Rice Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing as a refreshing main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or tofu. Garnish with additional chopped peanuts and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Present the salad in a large serving bowl or individual plates, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through. Consider adding a lime wedge or a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish for an appealing presentation.