Nam Sod

Nam Sod Recipe - Authentic Thai Ground Pork Salad

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nam Sod is a traditional Thai dish that is bursting with flavor and texture. This dish is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. It is a popular dish in Thailand and is often served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal.

History

Nam Sod has its origins in Thai cuisine and is believed to have been influenced by the flavors of neighboring countries such as Laos and Vietnam. The dish typically consists of ground meat, herbs, and spices, all mixed together to create a delicious and aromatic dish.

Ingredients

500 g ground lean pork or finely chopped pork (~1.1 lb (499 g))
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fish sauce
0.5 tsp dried chilies
1 tsp finely sliced fresh chile
2 tbsp onions, finely sliced
2 tbsp shallots, sliced into 2 cm pieces
2 tbsp roasted peanuts
2 tbsp gingerroot, finely sliced
1 tbsp fresh mint leaves
2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped (leaves and stems)
6 large lettuce leaves

Garnish

roasted peanuts
finely sliced ginger
dried chilies or fresh chile
mint
coriander sprigs

How to prepare

Place minced pork and water in a large saucepan. Cook slowly over medium heat until the pork is cooked through but still tender.
Remove from heat and add lemon juice, fish sauce, dried and fresh chilies. Stir.
Once cooled, add onion, shallots, peanuts, ginger, mint, and coriander leaves. Toss lightly.
Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves and garnish with mounds of peanuts, ginger, and chilies.
If desired, decorate with mint and coriander sprigs.

Variations

Substitute the ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the ground pork slowly over medium heat to ensure it is cooked through but still tender.

- Be sure to let the mixture cool before adding the fresh herbs and vegetables to maintain their freshness and crunch.

- Adjust the amount of chilies to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Nam Sod is traditionally served on a bed of lettuce leaves, but you can also enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles for a heartier meal. Pair it with a side of pickled vegetables or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the ground pork slowly to ensure it is cooked through but still tender.

- Toss the fresh herbs and vegetables lightly to maintain their freshness and crunch.

- Garnish the dish with roasted peanuts, ginger, and chilies for added texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fish sauce, you can substitute soy sauce or tamari.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

- Swap out the fresh chilies for chili flakes or chili paste for a spicier dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Nam Sod can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the dish before serving and garnish with fresh herbs and peanuts.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nam Sod on a large platter with the lettuce leaves arranged around the edges. Garnish the dish with mounds of peanuts, ginger, and chilies for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Nam Sod pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Nam Sod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the dish in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Nam Sod contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dish that is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Nam Sod is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the vegetables and herbs used in the recipe.

Fats

The main source of fat in Nam Sod comes from the ground pork and peanuts. However, using lean ground pork can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

Proteins

Nam Sod is a protein-rich dish, thanks to the ground pork and peanuts. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh herbs and vegetables used. Mint and coriander are rich in vitamins A and K, while ginger provides a good source of potassium and manganese.

Alergens

Nam Sod contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, Nam Sod is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbs and calories, high in protein, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Nam Sod is a delicious and nutritious Thai dish that is perfect for a light and flavorful meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the bold flavors and textures of Nam Sod with your family and friends today!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Nam Sod. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Jane at her cozy little farmhouse in the countryside. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the enticing aroma of fragrant herbs and spices filled the air. Jane was busy chopping, mixing, and sautéing, with a look of pure concentration on her face.

"What are you making, Jane?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"Oh, just a little something I learned from a friend who traveled to Thailand," she replied with a smile. "It's called Nam Sod, a traditional and flavorful Thai salad."

I watched in amazement as Jane effortlessly tossed together ground pork, fresh ginger, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers, and a medley of herbs and vegetables. The vibrant colors and bold flavors danced before my eyes, and I could hardly wait to taste the final dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of Nam Sod and was instantly hooked. The combination of savory, spicy, sour, and sweet flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Over the next few weeks, I pestered Jane for the recipe for Nam Sod. She finally relented, handing me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions neatly written out. I thanked her profusely and promised to do justice to her creation.

With the recipe in hand, I set out to make Nam Sod in my own kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients, including a few exotic items I had to hunt down at the local Asian market. I followed Jane's instructions to the letter, taking care to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

The moment of truth arrived as I plated the Nam Sod and took a bite. The flavors burst in my mouth, transporting me to a faraway land with each mouthful. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that I had successfully recreated a dish that had captured my heart.

As I continued to make Nam Sod for family and friends, the recipe became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I experimented with different variations, adding my own twist with extra herbs or a dash of coconut milk. Each time I made Nam Sod, I felt a sense of connection to Jane and the friend who had shared this culinary gem with her.

Years passed, and I found myself passing on the recipe for Nam Sod to my own grandchildren. I taught them the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and the art of balancing flavors to create a harmonious dish. It warmed my heart to see them eagerly donning aprons and joining me in the kitchen, eager to learn the secrets of this beloved recipe.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover Nam Sod, I am grateful for the friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the memories created along the way. This humble Thai salad has become more than just a dish to me – it is a symbol of tradition, passion, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

And so, as I continue to pass down the recipe for Nam Sod to future generations, I am filled with a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that a simple dish can carry with it the stories and memories of a lifetime.