Dinner

Yum Nua Recipe (Authentic Thai Beef Salad) Recipe

Name: Yum Nua Recipe (Authentic Thai Beef Salad) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 9 oz beef steak; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon palm sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce; 1/2 cup carrot, julienned; 1/2 onion, finely chopped; 2 cherry tomatoes, halved; 3/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (optional); 2 green onions, chopped (optional); 2 chilies, chopped (optional)

Bylina moretti April 20, 2026April 20, 2026

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Introduction

Yum Nua is a vibrant and flavorful Thai beef salad that combines grilled steak with fresh vegetables and a tangy, savory dressing. This quick and refreshing dish is perfect for a light meal or an impressive appetizer.

This dish is a colorful mix of sliced meat and fresh vegetables on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer has thick slices of white onion and green cucumber with their smooth skin. Above that, there are bright orange carrot slices and chopped green herbs, giving a fresh, crunchy look. Thick, succulent pieces of cooked meat with a slightly wrinkled texture sit scattered throughout. Thin slices of red chili peppers with seeds are spread on top, adding a vibrant contrast. The whole dish shows a fresh and lively mix of textures and colors, with the glossy shine of the meat and vegetables making it look very appetizing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 oz beef
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon palm sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce
1/2 cup carrot (julienned)
1/2 onion (finely chopped)
2 cherry tomatoes (halved)
3/4 cup cucumber (thinly sliced)
1 tablespoon cilantro (optional, chopped)
2 green onions (optional, chopped)
2 chilies (optional, chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your charcoal grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred doneness. Let the beef rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sesame oil, palm sugar, fresh lime juice, and fish sauce until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Add the sliced beef into the bowl with the dressing. Then add the carrot, onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, green onions, and chilies. Mix gently to coat everything evenly and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Substitute palm sugar with brown sugar if unavailable, but palm sugar adds a deeper caramel flavor.
Adjust the amount of chilies to control the heat according to your taste.
For extra freshness, chill the vegetables before mixing with the beef and dressing.
You can swap the beef for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Storage

Yum Nua is best enjoyed fresh to retain its crispness and vibrant flavors. If you must store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To reheat, warm the beef separately and toss with fresh vegetables and dressing to avoid sogginess.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a fresh vibrant salad arranged in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, showcasing multiple layers: the base consists of bright orange carrot slices and large white onion chunks, followed by thick green cucumber slices with textured skin scattered throughout; on top, there are tender pieces of cooked beef with a lightly browned exterior and soft texture, interspersed with small red chili pepper slices revealing yellow seeds inside, as well as chopped green herbs and leafy greens adding contrast; the ingredients appear moist with a slight sheen, emphasizing freshness and a mix of colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this salad?

Yes, tender cuts like sirloin, flank, or ribeye work well because they grill quickly and slice easily against the grain.

Is it necessary to use fish sauce in the dressing?

Fish sauce provides an authentic savory depth, but if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.