Warm Vietnamese Coconut Rice Salad Recipe
Table of Contents
Warm Vietnamese Coconut Rice Salad is a vibrant dish that brings together the comforting richness of coconut rice with the fresh, crisp flavors of vegetables and herbs. Enhanced by a tangy, umami-packed dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between hearty and refreshing. Whether served as a light main course, a flavorful side, or a unique dish for entertaining, it’s a versatile and delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
- 165ml can light coconut milk
- 2 makrut lime leaves, torn
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 400g papaya, thinly sliced
- 1 Lebanese cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts, trimmed
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 long red chilli, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh Vietnamese mint leaves
- 2 tbsp fried shallots
- Water
Recipe Directions
- In a large saucepan, pour in the rice, coconut milk, lime leaves, and 1 cup water. Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, then simmer for 12 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.
- Fluff rice with a fork to separate the grains, then transfer to a serving bowl. Remove the leaves. Let stand for 5 minutes to cool.
- In a small bowl, make the dressing by mixing the lime juice, brown sugar, and fish sauce. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the dressing to the rice, then stir well to combine.
- Add papaya, cucumber, bean sprouts, onion, chili, and mint. Gently toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with fried shallots.
- Serve.
Recipe Tips
- Avoid overcooking the rice; it should be tender but not mushy. The coconut milk adds richness, so a slightly sticky texture is ideal.
- Use fresh cilantro and mint for the best flavor. If you don’t have these herbs, basil can be a great substitute.
- Add protein to the dish by incorporating crispy tofu, edamame, shrimp, or grilled pork.
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the balance of lime juice and sugar to your preference for acidity and sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad can be enjoyed cold, but warm it slightly for an authentic touch.
Final Note
This Warm Vietnamese Coconut Rice Salad Recipe is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, complemented by a variety of textures. The coconut rice provides a comforting base, while the vegetables and dressing add vibrancy. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Enjoy!
For more easy rice meals to cook at home, check out our vast collection of recipes.
