Burmese Tomato Salad

Burmese Tomato Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with a tantalizing mix of spices and ingredients. This salad is marked by its unique blend of textures, from the juicy tomatoes to the crunchy roasted nuts. It is balanced with the zest of lime or lemon and a hint of sweetness, which makes it a perfect choice for any meal or as a standalone snack. The addition of toasty sesame seeds and warm spices such as turmeric or curry brings depth to the salad. It is often finished with a drizzle of either soy or fish sauce, enhancing the umami profile. The salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy days when you crave something healthy and delicious. It's customizable, offering the flexibility to adjust spiciness and sweet-sour balance to your liking. This dish can serve as a delightful introduction to Burmese cuisine, showcasing its rich and varied palate. Finally, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro adds both a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 6 tomatoes (preferably green, but red, yellow, etc. are also suitable)
• 2 onions
• 1 tbsp roasted nuts (preferably crushed cashews)
• 1/2 lime (or lemon)
• 1 tbsp sesame or olive oil
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Spices

• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 green chili pepper (red chili also works)
• 1 tsp turmeric or curry powder
• A pinch of sugar

Sauces

• 1 tbsp soy or fish sauce

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by slicing the tomatoes into wedges or small pieces, depending on your preference. Set them aside in a bowl.
2. Chop the Aromatics: Finely chop the onions and garlic, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent flavor release.
3. Heat Up the Oil: In a pan, heat the sesame or olive oil over medium heat.
4. Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and garlic into the hot oil, sauté until they become translucent and aromatic.
5. Spice it Up: Sprinkle turmeric or curry powder into the pan, stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the warm spices.
6. Add Chili Peppers: Slice the green chili pepper and add it to the pan, adjust the heat if you want a milder or spicier kick.
7. Cool the Mixture: Once the onions are soft and the garlic is lightly browned, remove the pan from heat to cool slightly.
8. Prepare the Dressing: Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the cooled onion mixture. Add the soy or fish sauce for a salty depth.
9. Combine Components: Place the sliced tomatoes onto a serving dish, and scatter the roasted nuts and toasted sesame seeds over them.
10. Add a Pinch of Sweetness: Sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the entire ensemble to balance the flavors.
11. Pour on the Aromatics: Drizzle the cooled, aromatic mixture from the pan onto the tomatoes.
12. Mix Thoroughly: Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
13. Finish with Freshness: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the salad to add a fresh, herbaceous note.
14. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and add more lime juice, sugar, or spice according to your preference.
15. Let it Rest: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
16. Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy its freshness, or refrigerate for a more intensified flavor profile.
17. Enjoy With Complements: This salad is exquisite on its own or paired with a side of rice or grilled protein.
18. Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, arrange tomatoes in a circular pattern on the plate before adding toppings.

Tips

• Nuts: If you have nut allergies, skip the roasted nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro.
• Lime vs. Lemon: Both add tanginess; lime will impart a slightly sweeter taste compared to lemon.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the number of chili peppers depending on your spice tolerance.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 16g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
• Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or cucumbers.
• Protein Boost: Include grilled shrimp or chicken for a more filling option.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or naan for a more substantial meal.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or iced tea.
• Garnish: Decorate with additional lime wedges or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat.

Best Places

• Pyi Myanmar Café - An authentic Burmese experience with cozy surroundings. Location: 56 Kings Road, London, UK.
• Burma Superstar - Celebrated for its fusion of Burmese cuisine with a modern touch. Location: 4721 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, USA.
• Feel Myanmar Food - A bustling spot known for its traditional dishes and flavors. Location: 124 Pansodan St, Yangon, Myanmar.
• Mandalay Restaurant & Café - Offers a wide variety of Burmese specialties in a warm setting. Location: 930 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, USA.
• Little Yangon - A small restaurant with big flavors, specializing in Burmese salads. Location: 5020 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, USA.
• Western Tandoori & Noodle House - Known for its hearty portions and flavorful dishes. Location: 133 W Hastings St, Vancouver, Canada.
• Taunggyi Cafe - Brings the flavors of Myanmar to Melbourne with its authentic dishes. Location: 113 Union Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cafe Burma - A contemporary take on Burmese classics, set in a delightful atmosphere. Location: 5B Portobello Street, Dublin, Ireland.
• Bogyoke Restaurant - Famous for its spicy salads and traditional teas. Location: Corner of Sule Pagoda Road, Yangon, Myanmar.
• Burma Lane - Offers an innovative approach to Burmese dining with a creative menu. Location: 118 W Market St, Sydney, Australia.