Yam Woon Sen

Name: Yam Woon Sen
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 150 g glass noodles; 100 g shrimp; 100 g minced pork; 2 tbsp lime; 2 tbsp fish sauce; to taste fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 seafood

Yam Woon Sen is a cherished Thai salad, often found gracing the tables of family gatherings and casual meals alike. Originating from the home kitchens of Thailand, this dish captures the essence of communal dining, with its ingredients freely adjusted by the hands of seasoned home cooks. Each household might have its own twist, but the heart of the dish remains constant—generosity in both flavor and serving.

This salad is a vibrant mix of textures and tastes, featuring glass noodles that soak up the savory notes of fish sauce and lime. Tender shrimp and minced pork add depth, while a hint of salt balances the tangy brightness. It's a dish that invites everyone to dig in, offering a refreshing yet satisfying bite with every forkful.

Ingredients

150 gglass noodles
100 gshrimp
100 gminced pork
2 tbsplime
2 tbspfish sauce
to tastefine sea salt

Method

Start by soaking 150 g of glass noodles in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside. This will ensure they absorb the flavors of the dressing later.
In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a gentle boil and add 100 g of shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which indicates they are cooked through. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In the same pot, add 100 g of minced pork and cook over medium heat. Stir frequently to break up the meat, cooking until it turns light brown and is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pot, as this will help keep the salad light.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened glass noodles, cooked shrimp, and minced pork. Add 2 tbsp of lime juice and 2 tbsp of fish sauce to the bowl. These ingredients will provide the essential tangy and savory flavors characteristic of Yam Woon Sen.
Season the mixture with fine sea salt to taste, keeping in mind that the fish sauce already adds saltiness. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure the noodles and proteins are evenly coated with the dressing, being careful not to break the noodles.
Transfer the Yam Woon Sen to a serving platter. Serve immediately, allowing the fresh and vibrant flavors to be enjoyed at their peak. Pair with bread to complement the dish and provide a satisfying contrast in texture.