Bean Sprout Salad, known in Thailand as Yum Tua Ngok, is a light, crunchy, and flavorful dish that highlights the fresh taste of bean sprouts combined with aromatic herbs and a classic Thai dressing. This simple salad delivers the signature Thai balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors while providing a healthy and refreshing addition to any meal.

Popular as a side dish or light appetizer, Bean Sprout Salad is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.

What is Bean Sprout Salad?

Bean sprouts are young shoots grown from mung beans and are widely used in Thai cooking. Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them perfect for absorbing bold dressings and seasonings.

In this salad, the bean sprouts are briefly blanched to retain their crunch before being tossed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make
  • Light and healthy
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Crisp and refreshing texture
  • Authentic Thai flavors
  • Great side dish for grilled meats and seafood

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 300 g fresh bean sprouts
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 small carrot, julienned
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed

For the Thai Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar
  • 1–2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Equipment Needed

  • Pot for blanching
  • Mixing bowls
  • Colander
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving platter

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 minute
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Step 1: Prepare the Bean Sprouts

Rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly under cold water.

Bring a pot of water to a boil.

Blanch the bean sprouts for 30–45 seconds until slightly softened but still crisp.

Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process.

Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Fish sauce
  • Lime juice
  • Palm sugar
  • Garlic
  • Chopped chilies

Stir until the palm sugar dissolves completely.

Taste and adjust the balance of flavors as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Bean sprouts
  • Cucumber
  • Carrot
  • Red onion
  • Green onions
  • Cilantro
  • Mint leaves

Pour the dressing over the salad.

Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving plate.

Sprinkle generously with crushed roasted peanuts.

Garnish with extra herbs and lime wedges.

Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch.

Chef's Tips

  • Do not overcook the bean sprouts to maintain their crisp texture.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Chill the vegetables before assembling for an extra-refreshing salad.
  • Add grilled shrimp or chicken to make it a complete meal.
  • Toast peanuts before crushing to enhance their aroma.

Variations

Shrimp Bean Sprout Salad

Add grilled or boiled shrimp for a seafood version rich in protein.

Chicken Bean Sprout Salad

Mix in shredded poached chicken for a heartier dish.

Vegetarian Version

Replace fish sauce with light soy sauce or mushroom seasoning sauce.

Extra Spicy Version

Increase the number of Thai chilies or add chili flakes.

Health Benefits

Bean sprouts are an excellent source of:

  • Vitamin C
  • Folate
  • Fiber
  • Plant-based protein
  • Antioxidants

Combined with fresh herbs and vegetables, this salad is a nutritious and low-calorie option.

Serving Suggestions

Bean Sprout Salad pairs beautifully with:

  • Thai grilled chicken (Gai Yang)
  • Grilled pork skewers
  • Thai barbecue seafood
  • Sticky rice
  • Green papaya salad
  • Tom Yum soup

Storage

For best results, enjoy the salad immediately after preparation.

If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

Bean Sprout Salad (Yum Tua Ngok) is a wonderfully simple Thai dish that transforms humble bean sprouts into a vibrant and flavorful salad. With its crunchy texture, fresh herbs, and tangy dressing, it captures the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite.

Whether served as a refreshing appetizer, healthy side dish, or light lunch, this salad is an easy and delicious way to enjoy authentic Thai flavors at home.