Thai cuisine is celebrated for its perfect balance of sweet, and salty notes — and one dish that embodies this harmony beautifully is larb. Known as Thailand’s national salad, (also spelled laab or laap) is a delicious blend of minced meat, lime, herbs, and roasted rice powder that delivers a refreshing yet spicy punch in every bite.
At Shalimar Restaurant in Phuket, our chefs take pride in serving authentic Thai dishes that capture the heart of local culture, and laarb holds a special place on our menu. Whether it’s chicken laab, or beef larb, this dish offers a delightful taste of Thailand in its purest form.
What Is Larb?
So, what is larb exactly? Simply put, larb is a traditional Thai salad originating from the northeastern region of Isan, near the border of Laos. It’s often made with minced meat — usually chicken,or beef — and flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, chili flakes, and toasted rice powder, which adds a nutty aroma and slight crunch.
Unlike a typical salad, laarb Thai is warm, spicy, and incredibly aromatic. It’s typically served with sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and sometimes lettuce leaves for wrapping. In Thailand, larb is a staple in family gatherings and local food stalls, loved for its bold yet balanced flavors.
Ingredients for Authentic Recipe
Making larb at home is simple yet rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need for an authentic laarb recipe:
- Minced meat: Chicken, pork, or beef (you can also use tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version).
- Toasted rice powder: Made by roasting uncooked sticky rice and grinding it into a fine powder.
- Lime juice: For the essential sour tang.
- Fish sauce: Adds saltiness and umami flavor.
- Chili flakes: For heat (adjust to taste).
- Shallots: Thinly sliced for a bit of sweetness.
- Fresh herbs: Mint, cilantro, and green onions bring freshness.
- Sugar: Just a pinch to balance the tang and spice.
Each ingredient in larb Thai contributes to a perfect symphony of flavors — spicy, zesty, salty, and slightly sweet.
How to Make This Dish at Home
If you’ve ever wondered how to make larb, here’s a simple recipe inspired by our chefs at Shalimar Phuket:
- Cook the Meat: In a non-stick pan, cook your minced chicken (or other meat) without oil until fully done. Add a few tablespoons of water to keep it moist.
- Add Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in fish sauce, lime juice, chili flakes, and a pinch of sugar.
- Mix in Toasted Rice Powder: Add about one tablespoon of toasted rice powder to the mix. This gives the dish its signature nutty flavor.
- Toss with Herbs: Add chopped mint, cilantro, shallots, and green onions. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy laarb with sticky rice or wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing contrast.
The beauty of larb Thai lies in its balance — the heat from the chili, the sour lime, and the fragrance of herbs all work together in harmony.
Types You Can Try
While chicken laarb is one of the most popular versions, there are several variations worth exploring:
- Pork Larb (Larb Moo): The most common type in Thailand, flavorful and slightly fatty.
- Beef Larb: A richer version with bold, meaty flavors.
- Duck Larb (Larb Ped): A Northern Thai specialty with deeper flavor.
- Larb Tofu: A vegetarian-friendly twist that’s light yet satisfying.
At Shalimar Phuket, our chicken laarb is a customer favorite — light, tangy, and bursting with authentic Thai spices.
Tips for the Perfect Larb
- Use Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh mint and cilantro for maximum aroma.
- Adjust the Heat: Thai food is known for its spice, but you can control the chili level to your preference.
- Toasted Rice Is Key: Don’t skip the rice powder — it adds essential texture and nuttiness.
- Balance Is Everything: Taste as you go. The perfect larb should be spicy, tangy, and lightly salty all at once.
Our chefs at Shalimar Restaurant emphasize this delicate balance in every serving, ensuring each bite delivers an authentic Thai experience.
Shalimar Phuket’s Touch
If you’re looking to experience larb Thai made with true traditional flavor, Shalimar Phuket is the place to be. Our restaurant brings together fresh ingredients, expert techniques, and time-honored Thai recipes to create dishes that capture the essence of Thailand.
Whether you’re dining in for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, our chicken larb is a must-try — perfectly seasoned, refreshing, and full of flavor. We invite you to taste the difference that authenticity makes.