What is Steamed Rice Salad (ยำข้าวต้ม) and what does it taste like?

Steamed Rice Salad is a traditional Thai salad dish with a flavor profile of authentic Thai balance of sweet, sour, salty, and savory notes.

How spicy is Steamed Rice Salad?

The spice level is rated 2/5. It is mild and approachable for most palates.

What are the key ingredients and potential allergens in Steamed Rice Salad?

Key ingredients include: steamed jasmine rice, fish sauce, lime juice, chilies, garlic, shallots, palm sugar. No primary common allergens in standard recipes, but always notify waitstaff of specific dietary requirements.

How do you eat and order Steamed Rice Salad authentically?

Best enjoyed fresh and hot. Follow regional dining customs with jasmine rice or fresh Thai condiments.

Steamed Rice Salad — Flavors, Ingredients & How to Eat

ยำข้าวต้ม

蒸米饭沙拉

Steamed Rice Salad is a classic Thai salad dish. Spice level: 2/5. Key ingredients: steamed jasmine rice, fish sauce, lime juice, chilies. Learn about this authentic Thai dish — ingredients, flavor, spice level, and how to eat it.

Spice Level

2/5

All images clearly labeled with statusMild, easy to eat

CategorySalad

Main Ingredients

steamed jasmine rice

fish saucelime juice

chiliesgarlicshallotspalm sugar

Allergens

This is a general guide. Always check ingredients and preparation with the restaurant.

✓ None

Origin

Yam Khao Tom is a traditional home-style dish from central and eastern Thailand, particularly popular in Rayong and Chanthaburi provinces. It originated from repurposing leftover cooked rice into a new salad dish, aiming to reduce food waste while creating a diverse and flavorful culinary option.

Characteristics and Flavor

Yam Khao Tom is a cold salad based on cooled cooked rice, tossed with fresh vegetables, long beans, red beans, bell peppers, and a dressing of sour, spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. It offers a pleasant crunch from the vegetables and a soft yet not overly firm texture from the rice. The overall taste is well-balanced and refreshingly delicious.

Ingredients

Cooled cooked rice
Sliced long beans
Sliced bell peppers
Boiled red beans
Finely chopped coriander
Lime juice
Fish sauce
Granulated sugar
Dried bird’s eye chili peppers

Serving Method

Serve chilled, paired with hot steamed rice or enjoyed as a midday snack. Toss thoroughly before eating to ensure even distribution of flavors.