If you would like to add rice powder to this recipe please read the notes.
Rice Powder (optional)
1/4 to 1/2cupwhite rice or jasmine rice, raw, (short grain)
Instructions
In a small bowl mix together the fish sauce, lime juice and sugar. Mix until well combined.
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chiles, shallots and garlic and cook stirring constantly for about 1 - 2 minutes or until the shallots become translucent. Don't let the garlic get brown.
Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon for about 4 to 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Add the onions and scallions and toss for about 1-2 minutes. In this dish the onions and scallions get warmed up but don't get cooked until completely softened. If preferred cook them for about 4 minutes or until soft.
Stir in the sauce. Toss to combine. NOTE: If using rice powder, sprinkle about a spoonful and toss. Add more if you prefer the mixture a bit thicker.
Remove from the heat and add the fresh cilantro, mint and basil. Toss and taste. Add additional chilies(or chili flakes) for extra spiciness, additional fish sauce if you want the salad a bit saltier, additional sugar if its a bit too sour for your taste or extra lime juice if you feel you need more tartness.
Serve warm or at room temperature with sticky rice and your choice fresh vegetables and additional fresh herbs (optional).
To Make Rice Powder (optional)
In a dry pan over medium-low heat, toast the rice, stirring often until the rice is fragrant and medium golden brown in color (this may take 10 minutes). Next, place the rice in a food processor or blender and grind until a coarse powder is formed.
Notes
Rice powder is used as thickener in this recipe. Although I have made this recipe without ANY thickener with great success, a quick slurry made with cornstarch and water can also be used as thickener.
Adjust the spiciness of the dish to your taste by adding more or less chiles or chili flakes.