Gỏi Khoai Môn Tôm Thịt, or Crispy Taro Shrimp & Meat Salad, is a vibrant and flavorful Vietnamese dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This unique salad combines the delightful crunch of crispy taro root with succulent shrimp and savory pork, all tossed in a zesty, aromatic dressing. The contrasting textures and tastes create a truly unforgettable culinary experience, showcasing the best of Vietnamese cuisine’s balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. It’s a perfect dish for a light lunch, a festive gathering, or simply a delicious weeknight meal.
This recipe offers a simple yet authentic approach to preparing Gỏi Khoai Môn Tôm Thịt, guiding you through each step with ease. From preparing the perfectly crispy taro to mastering the flavorful dressing, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this exquisite salad. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Toothpick
- Grater
- Frying pan
- Bowls
Ingredients
- Taro: 400g
- White onion: 150g
- Carrots: 200g
- Cabbage: 300g
- Thigh meat: 500g
- Shrimp: 400g
- Chili sauce: 2 tbsp
- Sugar: 3 tbsp
- Fish sauce (10°N): 2.5 tbsp
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp
- Sugar (for carrots): 3 tbsp
- Aino Moto rice vinegar: 6 tbsp
- Salt
- Minced garlic: 1.5 tbsp
- Water: 3 tbsp
- Cooking oil
- Roasted peanuts
- Vietnamese coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Use a toothpick to remove the shrimp's intestinal line. Boil the shrimp in salted water until cooked through for a crispy texture. (Avoid overcooking).
- Boil the meat in salted water for about 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. Immediately transfer the cooked meat to a bowl of ice water to maintain its whiteness and tenderness.
- Grate or finely chop the carrots. Mix with sugar and Aino Moto rice vinegar to allow the flavors to absorb.
- Thinly slice the white onion and soak in ice water until the ice melts completely to reduce pungency.
- Finely shred the cabbage for a better texture in the salad.
- Shred or thinly slice the taro. Fry the taro in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Cut the cooked meat into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Prepare the Dressings
- Mix together chili sauce, sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. Adjust lime juice to your desired level of sourness.
- Combine sugar, salt, chili, minced garlic, and lime juice with fish sauce (Nam Ngu long neck fish sauce). Add 3 tablespoons of filtered water and mix well to balance the flavors.
Step 3. Assemble the Salad
- Marinate the shrimp and meat in a portion of the fish sauce dressing. Add the marinated shrimp and meat, carrots, white onion, cabbage, and Vietnamese coriander to a large bowl. Add the fried taro (once it has cooled slightly to prevent it from becoming soggy). Gently mix with the remaining dressing until well combined.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with roasted peanuts and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Boil shrimp thoroughly to ensure they remain crispy in the salad.
- Don't overcook the meat; aim for tenderness, not softness.
- Add ice water to cooked meat to keep it white and tender.
- Mix the salad ingredients just before serving to prevent the taro and other vegetables from becoming soggy.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the taro, shrimp, and pork in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness and prevent the dressing from making the taro soggy.
2. What can I substitute for the shrimp or pork?
Feel free to substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also omit the pork entirely if preferred, though the savory element will be less pronounced.
This Crispy Taro Shrimp & Meat Salad is a testament to the vibrant flavors and textures of Vietnamese cuisine. With its delightful crunch, savory elements, and refreshing dressing, it's a dish guaranteed to impress. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying salad as a light meal or a flavorful addition to your next gathering.