Thai larb salad
AI-generated illustration
Larb is a vibrant and zesty minced meat salad originating from the Isan region of northeastern Thailand (and Laos). It typically features ground chicken, pork, or beef, tossed with fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, shallots, chili, and a tangy dressing of lime juice and fish sauce, all topped with crunchy toasted rice powder.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Larb is a high-protein, low-carb dish that is relatively low in fat if lean meat is used. It provides key nutrients like iron from the meat, vitamin C from the lime and herbs, and fiber from the fresh vegetables, with a rough calorie ballpark of 250-350 calories per standard serving.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, larb is considered the 'national dish' of Laos and is a cornerstone of Isan cuisine, often served as part of a shared meal with sticky rice. Nutritionally, the toasted rice powder (khao khua) is unique—it adds a nutty flavor and crunch while also acting as a light digestive aid.