Authentic Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing (Yam Neua)

This Authentic Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing is a celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s a zesty and savory salad that combines perfectly seared beef with crunchy vegetables and a spicy, tangy dressing known as Nam Jim Jeaw. Perfect as a light lunch or refreshing appetizer, this salad is as satisfying as it is vibrant.

Jump to Recipe

Subscribe

A vibrant and fresh Thai Beef Salad featuring tender slices of beef, cherry tomatoes, Green onions red bell pepper, cucumber and a generous garnish of fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zesty Nam Jim Jeaw dressing.

Region: Thailand

Thai Beef Salad, known as Yam Neua, comes from Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand. Known for bold, spicy dishes, Isaan cuisine often includes simple grilled meats paired with strong dipping sauces like Nam Jim Jeaw—a sweet, spicy, and sour sauce that adds depth to any meat, especially beef.

What makes this Thai Beef Salad so Special ?

I discovered this dish while traveling in Thailand. The original version was beautifully simple—thinly sliced grilled beef served with a side of Nam Jim Jeaw dipping sauce. It was love at first bite.

After experimenting at home with various Nam Jim Jeaw combinations, I created this version to elevate a classic Thai Beef Salad. The result is a mouthwatering fusion of textures and flavors—juicy beef, crisp vegetables, and a fiery, tangy dressing. It’s packed with the essence of fresh Thai ingredients, easily sourced, and true to traditional Thai cuisine.

A vibrant culinary display featuring a piece of seared beef surrounded by fresh ingredients including cherry tomatoes, a cucumber, green onions, a red chili pepper, and cilantro, accompanied by a bowl of zesty Nam Jim Jeaw dressing.

Thai Beef Salad - Recipe Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Salad contributes to the variety of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beef – Tender cuts like sirloin or inside round offer juicy texture and flavor.

• Salt & Pepper – For simple but effective seasoning.

• Vegetable Oil – Helps create a nice sear on the beef.

• Green Onion – Adds a gentle oniony bite and crunch.

• Thai Chili Pepper – Delivers the signature Thai heat.

• Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet, juicy contrast to the heat.

• Cucumber – Refreshing and crisp.

• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the salad with herbal freshness.

• Red Pepper – Adds crunch, color, and sweetness.

Please see the Recipe Card below for more detail on the quantities for each ingredient.

Nam Jim Jeaw Salad Dressing - Recipe Ingredients

Here is what you will need to make the Dressing for the Salad:

• Jasmine Rice – Toasted and ground, adds nuttiness and body.

• Tamarind Paste – Tangy and deep, essential to the sauce’s flavor.

• Fish Sauce – Rich umami flavor; essential in Thai cuisine.

• Lime Juice – Brings acidity and freshness.

• Sugar – Balances heat and acidity.

• Shallots – Adds aromatic sweetness.

• Fresh Cilantro – Boosts herbaceous complexity.

• Chili Flakes – Brings fiery intensity and warmth.

Please see the Recipe Card below for more detail on the quantities for each ingredient.

Key Steps in the preparation process of the Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing

This amazing salad comes together with just a few essential kitchen tools: a sharp knife, mixing bowl and a skillet for preparing the Beef. Below is a quick overview of the key steps, supported by helpful visuals to guide you through the process.

1. Season & Sear the Beef

2. Rest & Slice the Beef Thinly

3. Toast & Grind uncooked Jasmine Rice into Powder

4. Mix Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing

5. Chop Fresh Vegetables

6. Combine Everything in a Bowl

7. Spoon Dressing to taste Just Before Serving

More detailed instructions are available in the Recipe Card below.

Key Thai Beef Salad Ingredients prepared for mixing.

Thai Beef Salad Ingredients mixed and ready for the Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing

Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing - Ingredient Alternatives and Options

This recipe offers a few flexible options . 

• Beef: Substitute with tenderloin, filet mignon, or ribeye.

• Green Onions: Replace with red onions or shallots.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Use diced regular tomatoes.

• Fish Sauce: Substitute with soy sauce for milder umami.

• Red Bell Pepper: Try yellow/orange peppers or green beans for variety.

• Jasmine Rice: Replace with Basmati or other white rice.

Be sure to check the Recipe Card below for full details and substitutions.

Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing - Preparation, Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This salad is best enjoyed as a light lunch or as an appetizer in a larger Thai meal. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice, sticky rice, or grilled shrimp for a fuller meal. A cold glass of Riesling or Thai iced tea complements the spicy-sour flavors beautifully.

Try pairing with one of my other Asian recipes like:

Asian Inspired Fish & Shrimp Cakes , Thai Chicken and Mango Salad or Easy Asian Tuna Tartare

Authentic Thai Beef Salad with Nam Jim Jeaw Dressing (Yam Neua) -

Detailed Recipe

You may also Like

If you like this recipe please try one of the following recipes from around the world:

Thai Chicken and Mango Salad

Asian Inspired Salmon Tartare

Thai Chicken and Coconut Soup

Comments and Feedback