Larb (also spelled Laab) is a vibrant and flavorful Southeast Asian salad, and the chicken version is a particular favorite. This isn't your typical salad; it's a powerhouse of fresh herbs, toasted rice powder, and a punchy lime dressing, all working together to create a truly unforgettable dish. This guide will walk you through an authentic Larb Gai recipe, along with answering some common questions and offering delicious variations.
What is Larb Chicken?
Larb Chicken, or Larb Gai (ลาร์บไก่), is a classic Thai dish featuring ground chicken, a complex blend of herbs and spices, toasted rice powder (khao khua), fish sauce, lime juice, and often, a touch of chili. The result is a salad that's simultaneously refreshing, savory, and spicy—a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It's typically served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Authentic Larb Chicken Recipe
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup toasted rice powder (khao khua) - you can find this in Asian grocery stores or make your own by toasting glutinous rice in a dry pan until fragrant and lightly browned.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2-3 Thai chilies, finely minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: In a medium skillet or wok, cook the ground chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked chicken to a large bowl. Stir in the toasted rice powder, cilantro, mint, shallots, chilies, and dressing. Mix well to combine.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with roasted peanuts and scallions, if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later.
How to Make Toasted Rice Powder (Khao Khua)?
Making your own toasted rice powder is surprisingly easy! Simply heat glutinous rice in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it's fragrant and lightly browned. Let it cool completely, then grind it into a powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
Is Larb Chicken Spicy?
The spiciness of Larb Chicken is entirely adjustable. The recipe above uses 2-3 Thai chilies, which provides a good level of heat for many, but you can easily add more or less depending on your preference. If you're sensitive to spice, start with one chili and add more to taste.
What Herbs Are Used in Larb Chicken?
The two most common herbs in Larb Chicken are cilantro and mint. These fresh herbs provide a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of the chicken and dressing.
What Are the Main Ingredients in Larb Chicken?
The core ingredients of Larb Chicken are: ground chicken, toasted rice powder, fish sauce, lime juice, shallots, chilies, and fresh herbs (cilantro and mint). These ingredients create the unique flavor profile of the dish.
What to Serve with Larb Chicken?
Larb Chicken is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with various accompaniments. Some popular options include sticky rice, fresh vegetables (like cucumber and lettuce for wrapping), and a side of plain rice noodles.
Larb Chicken Variations:
- Larb with Ground Pork or Beef: Substitute ground chicken with ground pork or beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Larb: Use mushrooms or tofu as a protein substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Larb with Fish: Some regional variations use fish as the main protein source.
This comprehensive guide provides not only an authentic Larb Chicken recipe but also answers many frequently asked questions and suggests various adaptations to suit your tastes. Enjoy this culinary journey into the heart of Thai cuisine!
