This is one of my favorite new healthy recipes because the spicy pork/turkey mix combined with the crunchy cucumbers and quick pickled shallots is a flavorful and easy complete meal. I’ve lightened up the traditional laab salad by using half pork and half turkey, and by serving it in the lettuce wraps, you have an easy way to get your greens. I can’t wait to make this one again.
Thai Crispy Pork Salad
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 pound ground turkey
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 head bibb or butter lettuce or other lettuce
1/2 english cucumber, halved and sliced thinly
2 chilis of your choice, thinly sliced
1 shallot, thinly sliced
1/2 cup lime juice
Zest of 2 limes
1 cup basil leaves
1/2 cup mint leaves
1/2 cup cilantro
2 cups cooked brown rice
Combine half the chilis, shallot, cucumber and half the lime juice in a bowl and toss together. Season with salt an allow to sit for at least half an hour.
Saute the garlic and the rest of the chilis in a tablespoon of sesame oil for 30 seconds but not until browned. Add the meat, season with salt and pepper, and break up any large pieces. Allow the meat to brown well. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar and lime zest. Scrape up any browned bits and deglaze the pan, allowing the liquid to cook off. Off the heat, add the remaining lime juice and stir to combine.
Serve with the cucumber salad, rice, and herbs wrapped in individual lettuce leaves. Optional lime wedges can be served on the side.
