Thai Street Food Favorites with Lemongrass

Thailand is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, with dishes influenced by a blend of cultures and traditions. Among the numerous ingredients used to prepare these iconic meals, lemongrass stands out as a key component, adding an unmistakable aroma and flavor that leaves patrons eager for more.

Sweet & Sour Lemongrass Meatballs

Thai Street Food Favorites with Lemongrass

Meatballs are often underestimated as they can appear simplistic in composition. In the case of Thai-style lemongrass meatballs, simplicity meets elegance. This recipe features a blend of ground pork and chicken, mixed with aromatics such as grated ginger, onions, cilantro, and of course, lemongrass.

To make this dish, finely chop 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass, removing the lower portion that may be fibrous in texture. Combine it with 1 lb ground meat mixture containing equal parts pork and chicken, along with 1 minced onion, 2 cloves garlic (minced), and a sprinkle of cilantro for garnish. Mix until well combined.

Form small balls and cook them over medium heat in oil until browned on the outside. Once cooked through, serve as an appetizer or snack accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce, such as fish sauce with lime juice and chili flakes.

Classic Lemongrass Tom Yum Soup

Thai Street Food Favorites with Lemongrass

Another popular dish that stands out due to its versatility is the iconic Thai soup known as Tom Yum. This dish showcases a delicate balance of flavors, often featuring shrimp or other seafood as main ingredients, with lemongrass adding an invigorating aroma.

Start by preparing your broth: combine 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock and 1/2 cup coconut milk in a large pot over medium heat. Add in sliced onions, a few cloves garlic minced, along with the chopped lemongrass from earlier (about 3 stalks). Let it simmer for several minutes until fragrant.

Once ready to add your protein source, you can choose between shrimp, squid, or even tofu as an option for vegetarians and vegans. Cook them according to their specific cooking times before serving hot with a dash of fish sauce, lime wedges on the side, along with your preferred spice level from Thai chilies.