Thai Larb
Thai Larb is a vibrant and flavorful minced meat salad, often considered the national dish of Laos and a staple in Isan (northeastern Thailand). It typically features cooked minced meat (like pork, chicken, or duck) tossed with fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, shallots, a zesty lime juice dressing, and a generous amount of toasted rice powder for a distinctive nutty crunch.
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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Larb is generally high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a nutrient-dense meal. The key nutrients come from the lean meat and fresh herbs, and a typical serving can range from 250-400 calories, depending on the meat and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.2 mcg |
| Zinc | 5.5 mg |
| Potassium | 500 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Selenium | 35 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
What makes Larb unique is the use of toasted rice powder (khao khua), which adds a subtle, smoky aroma and a pleasant gritty texture that balances the fresh, acidic, and spicy flavors. Culturally, it's a communal dish often served as part of a larger spread, reflecting the shared, social nature of meals in the region.
🍽️ Related dishes
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms