Koh Samui Salad (Thai salad with tofu and shrimp)

Koh Samui Salad with Tofu and Shrimp - A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

If you desire a recipe that brings the exotic taste of Asia directly to your plate, the Koh Samui salad is the perfect choice. This vibrant salad is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients, intense flavors, and diverse textures, making it not only a nourishing dish but also an unforgettable culinary experience. Moreover, it is a quick recipe, perfect for warm days or for moments when you want to impress your guests.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 grams wide rice noodles
- 100 grams unsalted, unroasted peanuts, peeled
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 dried Kaffir leaves
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 piece of fresh ginger (2 cm)
- 6 cherry tomatoes
- 1 chili (or to taste)
- ½ bunch of fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (for dressing)
- Juice of 3 limes
- 2 carrots
- ½ cucumber
- 1 bulb of fennel
- ½ cabbage
- 100 grams pre-cooked small shrimp
- 1 bunch of fresh mint
- 350 grams soft (silken) tofu
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce

Recipe History:

The Koh Samui salad is inspired by the traditional cuisine of certain Asian regions, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors harmoniously blend. It reflects the Asian philosophy of using seasonal ingredients and creating dishes that are not only nourishing but also visually appealing. Peanuts, tofu, and shrimp are the key ingredients that contribute to the crunchy texture and rich flavor of the salad.

Step by Step:

1. Hydrate the noodles: Start by placing the wide rice noodles in a bowl of hot water. Let them hydrate for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This step is essential for achieving perfect noodles that will easily incorporate into the salad.

2. Toast the peanuts and seeds: In a pan, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and heat over medium heat. Add the peanuts along with the sesame seeds and crushed Kaffir leaves. Toast them until golden and they begin to release their aromas, about 3-4 minutes. Then, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

3. Prepare the dressing: In a blender, add the clove of garlic, ginger, cherry tomatoes, chili, and basil. Blend everything until you obtain a smooth paste. Then, add the sugar, fish sauce, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, and the juice of 3 limes. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Prepare the vegetables: Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice the carrots, cucumber, fennel, and cabbage as thinly as possible. The thinner the slices, the crunchier they will become and the better they will absorb the dressing.

5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, add the sliced vegetables and the dressing prepared earlier. Gently mix to combine the ingredients. Then, drain the noodles and add them to the salad bowl. Include the shrimp and chopped mint. Mix again carefully.

6. Prepare the tofu: Cut the soft tofu into cubes and mix it with the sweet chili sauce. This step will add a sweet note and a pleasant contrast of textures to the salad.

7. Serving: Add the tofu on top of the salad and sprinkle the toasted peanuts over it. Serve with lime wedges for an extra freshness. You can add a basil or mint leaf on top for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips:

- Substitutions: If you don't have rice noodles, you can use wheat noodles or even whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjusting the spiciness: If you prefer a less spicy salad, you can omit the chili or use a smaller amount.
- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan due to the use of tofu, but you can add more vegetables or even fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet and sour taste.

Nutritional Benefits:

This salad is rich in protein due to the tofu and shrimp, while the fresh vegetables provide an important supply of vitamins and minerals. The peanuts and sesame seeds offer healthy fats, which are beneficial for the heart. Consuming lime contributes to boosting immunity and aiding digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can different vegetables be used?
Yes, you can experiment with various vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or spinach, depending on your preferences.

- What is the best time to serve this salad?
It is perfect for light lunches, summer dinners, or picnics. It can also be served as an appetizer at a festive meal.

- How to store the salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but it is recommended to add the dressing and peanuts just before serving to maintain the crunchy texture.

Associated Recipes:

To complete the meal, you can serve this salad alongside a tropical smoothie or a mint lemonade. You can also try a light soup, such as miso soup or a vegetable soup with turmeric, to create a coherent menu full of flavors.

Enjoy this Koh Samui Salad with Tofu and Shrimp, a recipe that combines health with flavor, perfect for any occasion! Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by its exotic flavors!