Authentic Thai Nam Tok (Waterfall Beef Salad) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of beef sirloin
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
  • 3 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup of mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup of cilantro leaves
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons of toasted rice powder

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by grilling the beef sirloin on medium-high heat until it's cooked to your desired level. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and chili flakes until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Add the sliced beef into the bowl with the sauce. Toss it well to make sure all the pieces are coated with the sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
  4. While the beef is marinating, prepare the herbs. Finely slice the shallots, chop the mint and cilantro leaves, and slice the green onions.
  5. Add the prepared herbs, including the toasted rice powder, into the bowl with the marinated beef. Toss everything together until well combined.
  6. Your Nam Tok is ready to serve. You can enjoy it as is or with a side of sticky rice.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use pork or chicken instead of beef for a different meat option.
  • Add sliced red onions or shallots for extra flavor.
  • Include chopped lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves for a citrusy aroma.
  • For a spicier version, add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers.
  • Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian or vegan option.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as Thai basil or Vietnamese coriander.
  • Add freshly squeezed orange juice or pineapple juice for a fruity twist.
  • Serve it with a side of fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping.
  • Try grilling the meat with a marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for added flavor.
  • Add some chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.

Recipe overview

Nam Tok, also known as Thai Waterfall Beef Salad, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that originates from the Northeastern part of Thailand. This dish offers a unique balance of sour, sweet, and spicy flavors, which are characteristic of Thai cuisine. The name "waterfall" comes from the sizzling sound of the juices falling onto the hot grill. The recipe involves grilling beef sirloin and dressing it with a tangy and spicy sauce, followed by a mix of fresh herbs and toasted rice powder. An experience of making Nam Tok is not only easy and quick, but it also introduces you to the delightful and diverse world of Thai flavors. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it never fails to impress. Enjoy this succulent dish with some sticky rice for an authentic Thai meal experience.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef sirloin? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as flank steak or tenderloin for this recipe. You can also use pork or chicken if you prefer.
  2. Is there a vegetarian version of Nam Tok? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Nam Tok by using tofu or mushrooms as a substitute for the meat. Adjust the marinating time accordingly.
  3. Can I adjust the spiciness level? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you enjoy extra heat, you can add more chili flakes to suit your preference.
  4. Can I make the toasted rice powder at home? Yes, you can make toasted rice powder at home by toasting uncooked sticky rice in a dry pan until it turns golden brown. Let it cool before grinding it into a fine powder using a blender or a mortar and pestle.
  5. Can I make Nam Tok in advance? While it is best to enjoy Nam Tok fresh, you can prepare the marinated beef in advance and refrigerate it. Add the herbs and toasted rice powder just before serving to retain their freshness and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill - A grill is needed to cook the beef sirloin to perfection.
  • Large Bowl - A large bowl is essential for mixing the sauce and marinating the beef.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the beef and herbs.
  • Chopping Board - A chopping board provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients.
  • Tongs - Tongs are useful for flipping and handling the beef while grilling.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to accurately measure the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and chili flakes.
  • Toaster or Mortar and Pestle - A toaster or mortar and pestle is required to make the toasted rice powder.

Origin stories

Nam Tok, meaning "waterfall" in Thai, is a staple dish in the northeastern region of Thailand, also known as Isaan. The intriguing name is derived from the sizzling sound and the sight of juices dripping from the meat while it is being grilled, mimicking a waterfall. This dish is a testament to Thai cuisine's emphasis on balancing flavors, as it seamlessly combines the tangy lime, spicy chili flakes, and salty fish sauce into a harmonious blend. Notably, the toasted rice powder, a special ingredient in many Isaan dishes, gives Nam Tok its unique nutty flavor and slightly crunchy texture. This humble dish, often enjoyed with sticky rice and fresh vegetables, truly encapsulates the spirit of Isaan — simple, rustic, but full of flavor.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.