Yam wun sen – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Thailand Servings: Serves 4
Thailand Servings: Serves 4Yam Wun Sen is a delightful Thai noodle salad that perfectly balances spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors. Originating from the rich and aromatic cuisine of Thailand, this dish features glass noodles tossed with shrimp, ground pork, and an array of fresh vegetables. It reflects the quintessential Thai harmony of flavors, making it a popular choice both in Thailand and internationally. The interplay of textures, from the crunchy vegetables to the chewy noodles, makes each bite an adventure.
Ingredients
- Glass noodles – 100 g / 3.5 oz
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined – 200 g / 7 oz
- Ground pork – 200 g / 7 oz
- Cherry tomatoes, halved – 150 g / 5.3 oz
- Celery, sliced – 50 g / 1.8 oz
- Red onion, thinly sliced – 50 g / 1.8 oz
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – 20 g / 0.7 oz
- Lime juice – 60 ml / 1/4 cup
- Fish sauce – 30 ml / 2 tbsp
- Sugar – 15 g / 1 tbsp
- Bird’s eye chili, chopped – 1–2, to taste
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Instructions
- Soak the glass noodles in warm water for 10 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.
- Bring a pot of water to boil. Cook the shrimp and ground pork separately until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped chili to make a dressing. Mix until the sugar dissolves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened noodles, cooked shrimp, cooked pork, cherry tomatoes, celery, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve fresh.
Substitutions
- Glass noodles -> Rice noodles
- Shrimp -> Chicken
- Ground pork -> Ground chicken
- Fish sauce -> Soy sauce
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
- Include a dash of sesame oil for added aroma.
- Top with fresh Thai basil for an aromatic touch.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
