How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; note that vegetables may lose some crunch over time.

Can I use a substitute for ngapi?

You can substitute with anchovy paste or shrimp paste but be aware that this will alter the taste.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and dressing separately a day before and combine them just before serving.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Use a vegan fish sauce alternative and omit the ngapi for a vegan-friendly version.

What can I use instead of peanuts as a garnish?

You can use toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

Exotic Burmese Ngapi Salad

Name: Exotic Burmese Ngapi Salad
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients: 1 cup cabbage; 1 medium carrot; 1 small cucumber; 1 medium tomato; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons ngapi (Burmese fermented fish paste); 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 small chili; 2 tablespoons peanuts; 1 teaspoon fried garlic; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

A Flavorful Journey into Burmese Cuisine

Dive into the vibrant, tangy world of Burmese cuisine with this exotic salad, featuring a unique blend of fermented fish paste and fresh, crunchy vegetables.

40 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 cup cabbage

finely shredded

1 medium carrot

julienned

1 small cucumber

thinly sliced

1 medium tomato

diced

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

chopped

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons ngapi (Burmese fermented fish paste)

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 small chili

finely chopped (adjust to taste)

For the Garnish

2 tablespoons peanuts

roasted and crushed

1 teaspoon fried garlic

1 teaspoon sesame seeds

toasted

Preparation

Preparing the Salad

Wash Vegetables

Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold water.

Combine Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, cucumber, and tomato.

Add Cilantro

Toss with fresh cilantro until well mixed.

Preparing the Dressing

Mix Base

In a small bowl, combine ngapi, lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar.

Use ngapi sparingly if you're unfamiliar with its strong flavor.

Add Chili

Stir in the chopped chili, adjusting the amount for desired spice level.

Ensure Smooth

Mix well until sugar is dissolved and the dressing is smooth.

Allow the salad to rest in the fridge for 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Cooking Process

Tossing the Salad

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently mix until all ingredients are well-coated.

Final Garnish Addition

Sprinkle with peanuts, fried garlic, and sesame seeds just before serving.

Chilling

Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for 10 minutes for a well-blended flavor.

Plating & Serving