Yam Khai Yao Ma (Century Egg Salad) Recipe
Yam Khai Yao Ma, also known as Century Egg Salad, is a fascinating dish that showcases the incredible flavors of Thai cuisine. This recipe features century eggs, which are preserved duck eggs that have a unique flavor and texture. Yam Khai Yao Ma is loved for its delicious combination of creamy eggs, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing. It’s a great example of how traditional ingredients can blend together to create something truly delightful!
Culturally, this dish is significant in Thailand, often enjoyed as a salad. It combines various textures and flavors, making every bite a treat. The popularity of this dish stems from its vibrant taste and the health benefits of the ingredients used, making it appealing to many!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Century Eggs | 2-3, sliced |
| Cucumber | 1, thinly sliced |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Red Onion | 1 small, thinly sliced |
| Fresh Coriander | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Chili Pepper | 1, finely chopped (optional) |
| Fish Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Lime Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumber, chop the tomato, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Slice the Century Eggs: Carefully peel the century eggs and slice them into wedges.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced century eggs, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and chopped coriander. If you like it spicy, add the finely chopped chili pepper.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the egg and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy chilled or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 200 | 10% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 17% |
Tips and Tricks
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch.
- Adjust the Spiciness: If you prefer less heat, omit the chili pepper.
- Serve with Rice: This salad makes a great side dish for a main meal, especially with rice.
- Avoid Overmixing: When tossing the salad, do it gently to prevent breaking the century eggs.
FAQs
What are century eggs?
Century eggs are duck eggs preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, and quicklime, resulting in a unique flavor and dark green yolk.
How do I store leftover Yam Khai Yao Ma?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use quail eggs instead of century eggs?
Yes, quail eggs can be used for a different taste, though they won’t have the same flavor as century eggs.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used in this salad are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness can vary depending on the amount of chili pepper used. You can adjust it to your liking!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
What can I substitute for fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for a vegetarian option, though it may change the flavor slightly.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe serves about 2-4 people, depending on portion sizes.
Enjoy making and sharing your delicious Yam Khai Yao Ma (Century Egg Salad) with family and friends, and experience the unique flavors of Thai cuisine!
