Burmese Tea Leaf Salad Recipe

[jannababe]

I recently tried making Burmese Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet Thoke), and it was an explosion of flavors and textures! This traditional Burmese dish is unique and refreshing, combining fermented tea leaves with crunchy nuts and fresh vegetables. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:​

For the Tea Leaves:​

• 1/2 cup fermented tea leaves (available at Asian or specialty stores)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional for a vegan alternative)
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Salad:​

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup roasted sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup fried garlic
• 1/2 cup crispy fried yellow split peas (or chickpeas)
• 1/4 cup dried shrimp (optional)
• 2 green chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:​

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:​

1. Prepare the Tea Leaves: If you’re using packaged fermented tea leaves, you can skip to the next step. Otherwise, soak the tea leaves in water for a few hours or overnight. Drain and chop finely. In a small skillet, heat the sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the tea leaves, fish sauce (if using), and lime juice. Cook for a few minutes until well combined and set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, cherry tomatoes, green onions, peanuts, sesame seeds, fried garlic, crispy split peas, dried shrimp (if using), and green chilies.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce (or soy sauce), lime juice, sugar, and minced garlic until the sugar dissolves.
4. Assemble the Salad: Add the prepared tea leaves to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well mixed.
5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving plate and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant mix of flavors and textures!

Conclusion​

Burmese Tea Leaf Salad is a unique and delicious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to try something new. The combination of savory tea leaves, crunchy nuts, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful and refreshing salad that’s sure to impress. Give it a try and experience the taste of Burma!

 

[KainGo127]

This Burmese Tea Leaf Salad looks amazing! I love how vibrant and packed with flavor it must be! The crunchiness from the nuts and seeds sounds delicious! Can’t wait to give this a try—thanks for sharing!