🥗 Naem Khao (Laotian Crispy Rice Salad) – Authentic Laos Recipe

Naem Khao ( Laos Crispy Rice Salad )

Naem Khao, also known as Laotian Crispy Rice Salad, is one of the most beloved dishes from Vientiane, Laos. This crunchy, tangy, and flavorful snack is made with deep-fried rice balls, minced pork, and fresh herbs, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Whether you've sampled it on the streets of Laos or wish to introduce Lao flavors to your kitchen, this simple Naem Khao recipe will lead you through each step.

 Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Laotian / Lao Food

• Dish Type: Appetizer / Salad

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Serving Size: 4–6 people

🥘 Ingredients for Naem Khao ( Crispy Rice Salad )

For the Crispy Rice Balls:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old for extra crispiness)

• 200g minced pork

• 1 egg (for binding)

• 2 table spoon of fish sauce

• 1 table spoon of sugar (

• 1 table spoon of salt

• 1 cup shredded coconut (toasted)

• 2 tbsp red curry paste (optional for spice)

• JINGJAI Cooking Oil – for deep frying (high smoke point, keeps rice golden and crispy)

For the Salad Mix:

• 1 cup shredded pork skin

• ½ cup roasted peanuts

• 3–4 kaffir lime leaves (thinly sliced)

• 2–3 shallots (thinly sliced)

• Fresh red chilies (to taste)

• Juice of 2 limes

• Fresh herbs: mint and cilantro

• Lettuce or betel leaves for wrapping

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Rice Balls

1. In a large bowl, mix together rice, minced pork, egg, fish sauce, sugar, salt, curry paste, and shredded coconut.

2. Mold the mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball.

3. Heat JINGJAI cooking oil in a deep pan.

4. Deep fry the rice balls until they are golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Mix

1. Break the fried rice balls into small chunks.

2. Mix with shredded pork skin, roasted peanuts, shallots, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies.

3. Add lime juice and toss everything together.

Step 3: Serve in Style

• Present with lettuce or betel leaves.

• To enjoy: put a spoonful of the salad mixture on a leaf, wrap it up, and savor!

🌟 Tips for the Best Naem Khao

• For optimal crispiness, use rice that is a day old.

• Cook with refined vegetable oil, such as JINGJAI, to achieve a golden hue without a greasy feel.

• Modify the amount of chili to create mild or spicy variations.

🍴 Why You’ll Love This Crispy Rice Salad

• Experience genuine Lao street food right at home.

• Ideal for parties, family get-togethers, or as appetizers.

• Each bite offers a blend of crispy, tangy, spicy, salty, and nutty flavors.

👉 With this recipe, you can enjoy one of Laos’ most iconic dishes right from your kitchen. The crispy rice, tangy lime, aromatic herbs, and spicy chilies make Naem Khao an unforgettable dish that captures the heart of Lao cuisine.

🌐 For more recipes and cooking inspiration, visit: www.jingjaicookingoil.com