Yam Hed

Name: Yam Hed
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 300 g mixed mushrooms; 2 tbsp lime; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 handful herbs; 1 tsp chili flakes; to taste fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 vegan

Yam Hed hails from the lush, forested regions of Northern Thailand, where mushrooms are cherished for their earthy depth. Traditionally prepared in family kitchens, this dish captures the essence of home-cooked Thai meals, where salt is measured by intuition and cooking oil is applied with a generous hand. It’s a dish that exemplifies the communal spirit of the Thai table, where food is meant to be shared and enjoyed together.

Expect a symphony of flavors when you take your first bite: the sharp tang of lime, the umami warmth of soy sauce, and a subtle kick from chili flakes. The mushrooms, tender yet firm, provide the perfect canvas for a handful of fresh herbs. Serve Yam Hed as a vibrant centerpiece or a delightful side, celebrating the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients.

Ingredients

300 gmixed mushrooms
2 tbsplime
1 tbspsoy sauce
1 handfulherbs
1 tspchili flakes
to tastefine sea salt

Method

Start by cleaning 300 g of mixed mushrooms. Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to gently remove any dirt. Avoid rinsing them under water to prevent them from becoming soggy. Slice the larger mushrooms into bite-sized pieces, leaving smaller ones whole for a variety of textures.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tbsp of freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, and a pinch of fine sea salt. This mixture will serve as the dressing, balancing the earthy flavors of the mushrooms with acidity and umami.
Add the prepared mushrooms to the bowl with the dressing. Drizzle a small amount of neutral oil over the mushrooms to help the dressing adhere. Use your hands to toss the mushrooms gently, ensuring each piece is evenly coated without breaking them apart.
Sprinkle 1 tsp of chili flakes over the mushrooms for a hint of heat. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness. Continue to toss gently, making sure the chili flakes are distributed evenly throughout the dish.
Chop a handful of fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint, and add them to the bowl. These herbs will provide a fresh, aromatic note that complements the mushrooms. Gently fold the herbs into the mixture, being careful not to bruise them.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more fine sea salt if needed. The flavors should be bright and balanced, with a good contrast between the earthy mushrooms and the zesty dressing.
Serve the Yam Hed immediately on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. Accompany with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful dressing, making it a perfect dish for sharing.