Introduction
Experience the ultimate fusion of sweet, smoky, and zesty flavors with Fresh Nam Tok Grilled Beef Salad Pizza. This innovative dish marries the traditional Nam Tok, a beloved Thai grilled beef salad renowned for its tangy lime fish sauce and fresh herbs, with the comforting allure of pizza. Found in trendy Thai eateries and fusion restaurants across cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, you can expect to pay between 200-400 baht ($6-$12) for this delectable creation.
For keto enthusiasts seeking a flavorful low-carb alternative, the keto Fresh Nam Tok Grilled Beef Salad Pizza is an unbeatable option. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but keeps it balanced, allowing you to indulge without straying from your dietary goals. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure that intricately weaves together Thai tradition and pizza indulgence!
Origin and Inspiration
The inspiration for Fresh Nam Tok Grilled Beef Salad Pizza hails from Northeastern Thailand, where the name "Nam Tok" translates to "waterfall," a poetic reference to the sound of the meat juices flowing. Traditionally, Nam Tok is made from marinated grilled beef, enhanced with a zesty blend of lime juice, fish sauce, and an array of fragrant herbs. This dish celebrates bold flavors that dance on your palate, often served with warm sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
The keto version of this dish captures the essence of the original while trimming the carbs. By swapping the traditional pizza dough with a cauliflower or almond flour crust, we preserve that coveted savory taste and texture, allowing the grilled beef to shine and harmonizing beautifully with the crisp freshness of herbs. Both versions—traditional and keto—promise a thrilling culinary experience, showcasing the versatility of Nam Tok as it transcends its origins.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 460 kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 950mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g
Keto Version
Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 300g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chili flakes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (almond flour or cauliflower-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough/Base:
Traditional Version:
On a clean, floured surface, roll your pizza dough into your desired thickness, envisioning the crisp, golden crust that awaits. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and savor the anticipation.
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to the recipe. Once the crust is formed, bake it until lightly browned, filling your kitchen with a nutty aroma.
2. Marinate and Cook the Beef:
In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Toss the sliced beef in this marinade, ensuring each piece is coated and let it rest for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and sizzle until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes, allowing the enticing scents to envelop your kitchen.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza base, creating a creamy canvas.
- Layer the grilled beef on top, ensuring every slice gets a piece of that flavor-packed meat, followed by a liberal sprinkling of chopped cilantro and mint.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- (Both Versions) Place the assembled pizza on a baking sheet or stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbling, casting a golden hue on the edges. The aroma will be intoxicating!
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven, topping it off with a drizzle of extra lime juice, a flourish of fresh herbs, and perhaps a light dusting of chili flakes for an extra kick. Slice and serve hot to rave reviews!
What Does It Pair Well With?
Traditional Pairings: Enjoy your pizza with a chilled Thai lager or a fragrant Thai iced tea that cools the robust flavors, offering a delightful contrast.
- Keto Pairings: Consider a refreshing sparkling water with lime or a sugar-free coconut drink to complement the layers of flavor without adding carbs.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: The pizza retains its flavor for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keto Version: The keto version is best enjoyed fresh but lasts up to 3 days in similar storage conditions.
- Freezing: Both variants can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Grilling: If the sun’s shining, consider grilling your pizza on a BBQ for a smoky flavor. Just place it on a pizza stone for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the base is crispy.
- Air Fryer: For a quick option, cook smaller pieces in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, enjoying a perfectly cooked pizza with minimal effort.
Conclusion
The Fresh Nam Tok Grilled Beef Salad Pizza is a vibrant celebration of flavors, expertly blending traditional Thai elements with the comfort of a classic pizza. Whether indulging in the traditional version or savoring the keto adaptation, each bite is a vivid tapestry of spicy, tangy, and savory sensations that promises to delight your taste buds. Allow this dish to fit seamlessly into your weeknight meals or festive gatherings, showcasing the beauty of fusion cuisine at its finest!
