Popped Lentils: Burmese Tea Leaf and Popped Lentil Salad

fermented tea leaves

🥗Healthier: fresh spinach

💰Cheaper: cabbage

Fresh spinach provides a similar texture and nutritional value.

popped lentils

🥗Healthier: toasted chickpeas

💰Cheaper: regular lentils

Toasted chickpeas add crunch while being more affordable.

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce is a vegetarian alternative with similar umami flavor.

peanuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: pumpkin seeds

Sunflower seeds offer a nut-free option with a similar crunch.

Prepare the fermented tea leaves by rinsing them under cold water.

Chop the cabbage finely and place it in a large mixing bowl.

Dice the tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the cabbage.

Mix in the popped lentils and peanuts for added crunch.

Add the sesame seeds to the mixture for extra flavor.

In a small bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and sugar to create the dressing.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.

Toss everything together gently until well combined.

Chop green onions and cilantro, then sprinkle them on top of the salad.

Serve immediately for the best texture, or let it sit for a few minutes to meld flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens