Escape the ordinary with this vibrant and refreshing Crispy Mango Salad, a delightful twist on classic Thai flavors. Imagine the sweet burst of ripe mango, the satisfying crunch of toasted peanuts and crispy shallots, all perfectly balanced by a zesty lime dressing. This isn't your average salad; it's a symphony of textures and tastes, a perfect light lunch, side dish, or even a surprisingly satisfying appetizer. The vibrant colors alone will make your taste buds sing!
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating this delicious salad from start to finish. We'll cover everything from preparing the key ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of sweet, salty, sour, and savory. Ready to experience the magic of this Crispy Mango Salad? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Peeler
- Mixing bowl
- Freezer
Ingredients
- Thai Mangoes: 2
- Sugar: 4 tablespoons (3 tablespoons used, 1 tablespoon reserved)
- Fish Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Dried Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Tay Ninh Shrimp Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Korean Chili Powder: 1/2 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sweet and Spicy Dressing
- Combine fish sauce and sugar in a pot and cook until the sugar dissolves.
- Turn off the heat and let the sugar mixture cool.
- Add the reserved tablespoon of sugar, Tay Ninh shrimp salt, and Korean chili powder to the cooled fish sauce and sugar mixture.
Step 2. Chill and Prepare the Mangoes
- Peel and cut the mangoes into square pieces. The size can be adjusted to your preference.
- Place the cut mangoes in the freezer for 30 minutes (or marinate with ice for 15 minutes) to chill and maintain crispness.
- Remove mangoes from freezer and drain.
Step 3. Combine Mangoes and Dressing
- Mix well to coat the mangoes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Use less sour mango varieties like Thai mangoes for best results.
- Marinating the mangoes in ice before adding the sauce helps maintain crispness.
- Cut mangoes into larger pieces for a crispier texture.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the mango and vegetables a few hours in advance. Add the dressing and toasted toppings just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
2. What can I substitute for the peanuts?
Cashews or macadamia nuts would be delicious substitutes. For a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
3. Can I adjust the spiciness?
Absolutely! Start with a smaller amount of chili flakes or sriracha and add more to taste. If you prefer a milder salad, omit the chili altogether.
This Crispy Mango Salad is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by bold flavors and contrasting textures. From its vibrant colors to its refreshing taste, it's a dish guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure – your taste buds will thank you!