Fivemplarity
Novice Foodie
Mieng Kam is a beautiful and flavorful appetizer from Thailand. It features betel leaves (not to be confused with betel nut, which has psychoactive effects) wrapped around a delicious combination of ingredients like ginger, shallot, peanuts, and dried shrimp. The result is a refreshing and flavorful bite that's perfect for any party or gathering.
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- For the Mieng Kam Wraps:
- 1 package fresh betel leaves (around 20 leaves)
- 1 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, julienned
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup dried shrimp (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Palm sugar (to taste)
- Prepare the Fillings: Wash and dry the betel leaves carefully. Roughly chop the peanuts. Thinly slice the shallot and julienne the ginger. Cut the lime into wedges. If using dried shrimp, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and chop. Shred the coconut (optional).
- Assemble the Mieng Kam Wraps: Place a betel leaf on a plate. Add a small amount of chopped peanuts, sliced shallot, julienned ginger, and a squeeze of lime juice to the center of the leaf. You can also add a piece of dried shrimp and some shredded coconut for additional flavor and texture (optional).
- Fold the sides of the betel leaf over the filling, then fold the bottom part of the leaf up to create a small package. Secure the wrap with a toothpick if needed.
- Repeat with the remaining betel leaves and fillings.
- Serve the Mieng Kam wraps immediately alongside the remaining lime wedges and palm sugar. Guests can adjust the sweetness with palm sugar to their preference before taking a bite.