We first had this salad about eleven years ago, shortly after we returned from living in America. It has been a firm favourite ever since and we eat it at least once a month and more often if I think about making it. Although this is classed as a salad it could not be further away from what I grew up to understand salads to be, i.e. lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber! The tender chunks of beef, straight from the pan, absorb the hot and spicy salad dressing. The sweetness of the mango is in perfect contrast with the beef and the heat from the red onion and the watercress. Your senses will rarely be subjected to such an attack on all levels, smell, taste and sight! Absolutely delicious and very low in fat, carbohydrate and calories so excellent for anyone who is hoping to lose weight. What more could you ask for?
Thai food is known for its balance of the four fundamental taste senses, sour, sweet, salty and bitter. It is often spicy as well. This dish is an excellent example of how this balance is achieved. Don’t be put off by the ingredients, especially the mango in a savoury dish. If you like spicy food I think you will love this.
Thai style beef and mango salad Serves 2 (generously)
- 2 sirloin steaks, trimmed of fat, cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 mango, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 red onion, cut in half and thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
- 1 bag watercress
- 3 tsp fish sauce
- freshly ground pepper
- juice 1 lime
- small knob fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 small red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp soft brown sugar
- Spray sunflower oil or Frylight
- Put the cubes of steak in a dish, add 1 tsp fish sauce and season well with freshly ground pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Divide the watercress between two plates. Sprinkle the mango cubes and sliced onion over each plate.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lime juice, brown sugar, ginger, garlic and chilli. Check for taste. If it is too sweet add more lime, too sour, add a little more sugar.
- Just before serving, heat the oil in a wok. When hot stir fry the steak , turning frequently, until it is browned all over.
- Divide the steak between the two plates of salad and dress, to your liking, with the dressing. Serve immediately.
Tasty Advice 