Vegan Larb Hua Plee (Thai Banana Blossom Salad)

Looking for a fresh, aromatic vegan dish in Hua Hin? Try the Vegan Larb Hua Plee (Thai Banana Blossom Salad). This recipe combines banana blossom and young jackfruit for a delicious, healthy meal.

This vibrant vegan salad captures the essential spirit of Thai cuisine: bold, fresh, and aromatic. Banana blossom and young jackfruit provide a tender, flaky texture that wonderfully mimics meat, making it a satisfying plant-based main or side. The dressing is a masterclass in balance—tangy, salty, sweet, and spicy all at once.

Yield: 2-3 servings as a main, 4 as a side Prep time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 fresh banana blossom, prepared (peeled, cleaned, and shredded)*
• 1 cup young green jackfruit, prepared (canned and shredded or fresh)*
• 1/4 cup lemongrass, tender inner parts only, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, deveined and finely sliced (optional, for authentic aroma)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or vegan fish sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1–2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared shredded banana blossom and jackfruit.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped lemongrass, cilantro, mint, and sliced shallots to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped chilies. Taste and adjust to your preference—add more lime for tang, more sugar for sweetness, or more chili for heat.
4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
5. Finish and Rest: Fold in the crushed peanuts and kaffir lime leaves (if using). Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the banana blossom to soften slightly.
6. Serve: Serve immediately on a plate or in a bowl, optionally garnished with an extra sprinkle of peanuts, cilantro, and a banana blossom petal.

Chef's Notes:

• How to Prepare Banana Blossom: After shredding, soak the pieces in acidulated water (water with a squeeze of lemon or lime) to prevent discoloration.

• How to Prepare Young Jackfruit
  
• Spice Level:* This is your salad! Start with one chili and add more after you taste the dressing.
• Make it a Meal:* Serve with sticky rice and crisp lettuce cups for wrapping.

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