Spicy Mackerel Salad (Yam Pla Thu) - Thai Food -Nong and Josh

A refreshing, zesty, and spicy Thai salad featuring pan-fried or steamed short mackerel tossed with fresh herbs, shallots, and chili-lime dressing.

Ingredients:

1. Short Mackerel (Pla Thu): 2 fish (fried or steamed, with meat flaked off the bones)
2. Shallots: 3-4 bulbs (thinly sliced)
3. Bird's Eye Chilies: 5-10 (chopped, adjust to taste)
4. Lemongrass: 1 stalk (finely sliced)
5. Coriander & Mint Leaves: A handful (coarsely chopped)
6. Fresh Lime Juice: 2-3 tbsp
7. Fish Sauce: 1.5 - 2 tbsp
8. Palm Sugar: 1 tsp (to balance the flavors)
9. Cherry Tomatoes (Optional): 4-5 pieces (halved)

Elegant Thai Woman Traditional Dress by Nong_Josh

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish: Cook the mackerels if raw, let them cool, then carefully flake the meat into bite-sized pieces while removing all bones.
2. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then mix in the chopped chilies.
3. Toss the Salad: Add the flaked mackerel, sliced shallots, lemongrass, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs into the bowl with the dressing.
4. Combine Gently: Toss everything together gently to ensure the flavors coat the fish and herbs evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy fresh alongside warm jasmine rice or sticky rice.

Crispy Fried Chicken Bucket Watercolor Art by Nong_Josh