This ground beef larb with pickled vegetable slaw is one of our go-to weeknight meals! It's simple, quick, healthy, and has a ton of flavor. Inspired by Lao and Thai flavors, the larb can be served in lettuce cups or in a bowl over rice.
Butter lettuce, rice (we use brown), cilantro, basil, mint, Sambal oelek, and/or Sriracha for serving
Instructions
Pickled Vegetable Slaw
Whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, mix to coat, and let sit for at least 10 minutes. This can be made up to three days in advance.
Beef Larb
In a medium pan (preferably cast-iron), heat the oil over high heat. Add the beef, and press it into a single layer with a spatula. Cook until the bottom is crispy and browned (not burnt!), about 5 minutes. Break it up with your spatula and cook through. Drain any fat.
Add the scallions and jalapeno to the pan, and cook until the jalapeno is softened. Stir in the ginger and garlic and cook until fragrant. Lastly, add the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, hot sauce, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Taste, and add more seasonings as necessary.
Serve the beef in lettuce cups with pickled vegetables and rice. (Alternatively, you can serve it over bowls of rice). Add additional herbs, lime wedges, and hot sauce to taste.
Notes
You can replace the beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.