Pleah: Cambodian Beef Salad

Elijah Grounds

Pleah is a refreshing Cambodian beef salad that perfectly balances bright, citrusy notes with the rich umami depth of tender beef. Traditionally served at celebrations, this dish is a delightful mix of textures and flavors—crunchy herbs, juicy beef, and the kick of fresh chili. A must-try for lovers of bold, Southeast Asian cuisine!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 5

Total Time 25

Course Salad

Cuisine East / Southeast Asian

Servings bowls

Calories 199 kcal

Equipment

Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Tongs
Knife

Ingredients

For the Beef:

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced preferably grass-fed for best flavor
3 tbsp fresh lime juice adjust to taste
1 tbsp fish sauce use high-quality Cambodian or Thai fish sauce
1 tsp palm sugar can substitute with light brown sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely sliced
2 tbsp roasted peanuts, crushed adds crunch and depth
1 tsp red chili, finely chopped adjust to heat preference

For the Herbs & Garnishes:

1 cup fresh mint leaves
1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
½ cup scallions, thinly sliced
½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced adds cool freshness
½ cup tomatoes, sliced for color and acidity

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Bring a saucepan of water to a boil, then blanch the thinly sliced beef for about 30 seconds until just cooked. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Transfer the cooled beef to a large bowl. Add the thinly sliced shallots, chopped chili, and half of the crushed peanuts.
Pour the prepared lime dressing over the beef mixture and toss gently to coat.
Add the fresh mint, cilantro, and scallions, and lightly toss again to integrate the herbs evenly.
Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining crushed peanuts, cucumber slices, and tomatoes.

Notes

For a bolder flavor, let the beef marinate in the dressing for an extra 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 27gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 452mgPotassium: 661mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1058IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 78mgIron: 3mg

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