Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this authentic Yam Nua recipe. This Thai beef salad features tender slices of grilled beef tossed with a tangy and spicy dressing, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal or a flavorful appetizer, Yam Nua combines zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and crunchy vegetables for an irresistible taste of Thai cuisine. Learn how to make this delicious Thai beef salad at home with our easy-to-follow recipe. 

Ingredients:

- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- 1/4 cup fish sauce

- 3 tablespoons lime juice

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1 cup cucumber, sliced

- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)

- Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions:

Cook the Beef:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper.

  - Grill or sear the beef for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness is achieved.

  - Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Prepare the Dressing:

  - In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chopped red chilies until the sugar is dissolved.

Assemble the Salad:

  - In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef, chopped cilantro, mint, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.

  - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Serve

  - Arrange lettuce leaves on a serving platter and top with the beef salad mixture.

  - Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, if using.

  - Serve immediately, and enjoy this refreshing and spicy Thai beef salad!

This Yam Nua recipe is a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and fresh flavors that will transport you straight to Thailand!

Nutritional values

For the Salad

Beef Sirloin or Tenderloin (1 lb or 450 g)

 - Calories: ~250

 - Carbohydrates: ~0g

 - Protein: ~26g

 - Fat: ~17g

Benefits:

 - High in protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.

 - Provides important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins (e.g., B12).

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon)

 - Calories: ~120

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: ~14g

Benefits:

 - Used for cooking, helping to enhance flavors.

 - Choose oils with a high smoke point for better cooking results.

Fish Sauce (1/4 cup)

 - Calories: ~70

 - Carbohydrates: ~4g

 - Protein: ~12g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a savory umami flavor.

 - Provides some protein and essential minerals like sodium.

Lime Juice (3 tablespoons)

 - Calories: ~12

 - Carbohydrates: ~3g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

 - Adds a tangy flavor that complements the beef.

Sugar (1 tablespoon)

 - Calories: ~52

 - Carbohydrates: ~13g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness to balance the savory and tangy flavors of the salad.

 - Enhances the overall flavor profile.

Red Chilies (1-2, finely chopped)

 - Calories: ~6

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~0.2g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds heat and spiciness to the dish.

 - Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Fresh Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)

 - Calories: ~1

 - Carbohydrates: ~0.2g

 - Protein: ~0.1g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds fresh flavor and color.

 - Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and has antioxidant properties.

Fresh Mint (1/4 cup, chopped)

 - Calories: ~1

 - Carbohydrates: ~0.2g

 - Protein: ~0.1g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a refreshing flavor.

 - Contains vitamins A and C, and has digestive and antioxidant properties.

Red Onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced)

 - Calories: ~15

 - Carbohydrates: ~4g

 - Protein: ~0.3g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.

 - Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may have health benefits.

Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved)

 - Calories: ~27

 - Carbohydrates: ~6g

 - Protein: ~1g

 - Fat: ~0.3g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene.

 - Supports heart health and skin health.

Cucumber (1 cup, sliced)

 - Calories: ~16

 - Carbohydrates: ~4g

 - Protein: ~0.7g

 - Fat: ~0.1g

Benefits:

 - Provides hydration and adds a refreshing crunch.

 - Contains vitamins K and C, and has antioxidant properties.

Roasted Peanuts (1/4 cup, chopped, optional)

 - Calories: ~200

 - Carbohydrates: ~7g

 - Protein: ~8g

 - Fat: ~18g

Benefits:

 - Good source of protein and healthy fats.

 - Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and potassium.

Lettuce Leaves (for serving)

 - Calories: ~5

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~0.5g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Provides a low-calorie base for serving.

 - Contains vitamins and minerals, including folate and vitamin K.

This breakdown provides insight into the nutritional content and health benefits of each ingredient in your beef salad recipe.