How to Make Vietnamese Mango Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Delight

Vietnamese Mango Salad (Gỏi xoài) is a popular dish that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. This refreshing salad, often served as a side or appetizer, is made from green mango, herbs, and a variety of seasonings that give it a vibrant and bold taste. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light, refreshing meal, Vietnamese Mango Salad is a great choice.

What is Vietnamese Mango Salad?

Vietnamese Mango Salad is a traditional dish made primarily with green mango, a tart and slightly sour variety of mango that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the other ingredients. This dish is typically prepared with thinly shredded mango, mixed with herbs, shrimp (or tofu for a vegan version), and topped with roasted peanuts for crunch.

The vibrant flavors come from a zesty dressing made of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili, which together create a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. It’s commonly served with rice paper rolls, grilled meats, or as a stand-alone appetizer.

Key Ingredients for Vietnamese Mango Salad

The following ingredients are essential for making this refreshing and flavorful dish:

• Green Mango: 2 medium-sized, peeled and shredded (green mango is key for that tartness)

• Shrimp: 200g, cooked and peeled (you can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version)

• Herbs: Fresh mint, cilantro, and Thai basil (adds a fragrant and fresh taste)

• Carrots: 1, shredded (adds sweetness and color)

• Roasted Peanuts: 50g, crushed (for added crunch)

• Lime Juice: 1-2 tablespoons (for tartness)

• Fish Sauce: 2 tablespoons (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version)

• Sugar: 1 tablespoon (balances the tanginess)

• Garlic: 1 clove, minced

• Chili: 1-2, sliced (adjust based on your spice preference)

• Shallots: 1, thinly sliced (adds a mild sweetness)

These ingredients come together to create a salad that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Vietnamese Mango Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Mango and Vegetables

Start by peeling and shredding the green mango. Use a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife to create thin, matchstick-sized strips. This will give the salad its characteristic texture and make it easy to eat.

Next, shred the carrot and slice the shallots thinly. These ingredients add color, sweetness, and texture to the salad.

Tip: If you find the mango too sour, you can soak it in cold water with a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes before draining it. This will help mellow out the tartness.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp (or Tofu)

If you’re using shrimp, cook them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Peel the shrimp and slice them in half lengthwise for easy mixing with the other ingredients.

For a vegan version, use tofu. Cut it into small cubes and lightly pan-fry until golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and sliced chili. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste – you want a balance between sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili and garlic. Alternatively, increase the chili if you want an extra spicy kick.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the shredded mango, carrot, shrimp (or tofu), and shallots. Add the fresh herbs, such as mint, cilantro, and Thai basil, to enhance the aromatic flavor profile of the salad.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently. Make sure the mango is well-coated in the dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top the salad with crushed roasted peanuts and a few more fresh herbs for garnish. Serve immediately as a fresh and vibrant appetizer or side dish.

Note: This salad is best enjoyed immediately to preserve the crunchiness of the mango and the freshness of the herbs.

Health Benefits of Vietnamese Mango Salad

Vietnamese Mango Salad is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should make this salad a regular part of your meals:

1. Rich in Vitamins: The green mango is packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and helps fight off illness.

2. Low in Calories: This salad is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

3. High in Fiber: The shredded mango and carrot provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

4. Good Source of Protein: With the addition of shrimp or tofu, the salad provides a healthy dose of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.

Tips for Making the Perfect Vietnamese Mango Salad

• Use Fresh Mango: Fresh, green mango is essential for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using ripe mango, as it will be too sweet and soft.

• Adjust the Spice: Depending on your tolerance for spice, feel free to adjust the amount of chili in the dressing. You can also remove the seeds from the chili for a milder heat.

• Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, simply replace the shrimp with tofu or tempeh. You can also substitute fish sauce with soy sauce for a completely plant-based dish.

Variations of Vietnamese Mango Salad

While the traditional version of Vietnamese Mango Salad uses shrimp and green mango, you can make several variations to suit your preferences:

1. With Grilled Pork: Add some grilled pork or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

2. With Avocado: For a creamier twist, add some sliced avocado along with the mango.

3. Spicy Mango Salad: For a fiery version, use bird’s eye chili and add extra chili oil to the dressing.

FAQs About Vietnamese Mango Salad

Q: Can I use ripe mango for this salad?

A: It’s best to use green mango, as its tartness provides the right balance for the sweet, salty, and spicy flavors in the salad. Ripe mango will be too sweet and soft.

Q: How long can I store this salad?

A: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after making it, as the mango may soften over time. If you must store it, keep the dressing separate and assemble the salad just before serving.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to toss them together and add the dressing just before serving to keep the mango crispy.

Q: What can I serve with Vietnamese Mango Salad?

A: This salad pairs well with rice paper rolls, grilled meats, or as a fresh side dish to any meal.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Mango Salad is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of green mango, shrimp or tofu, and a tangy dressing. It’s not only delicious but also healthy, providing a refreshing balance of nutrients and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Try it out for yourself, and feel free to get creative with variations based on your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!