Easy Thai Larb Recipe with Ground Turkey & Fresh Mint

Name: Easy Thai Larb Recipe with Ground Turkey & Fresh Mint
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) ground turkey; 2 tablespoons uncooked sticky rice; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes; 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Crisp lettuce leaves for serving

Written by

David

Posted on October 28, 2025

Seafood

October 28, 2025

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The tangy, spicy, and herbaceous flavors of Thai larb have me hooked every single time. There’s something magical about the combination of fresh mint, lime juice, and chili that makes this dish irresistible. I first stumbled upon larb at a tiny Thai street food stall, where the chef whipped up a version so vibrant, I could taste the sunshine in every bite. Ever since, I’ve been recreating it at home, tweaking the recipe until it was just right. My version uses ground turkey for a lighter, leaner take, but keeps all the bold flavors intact.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish to impress friends, this Thai larb recipe checks all the boxes. It’s easy, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for lettuce wraps, served with steamed jasmine rice, or even enjoyed as a salad topping. Ready to bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Healthy & Light: Using ground turkey instead of pork cuts down on fat while keeping it protein-packed.
Fresh Ingredients: The mint, lime, and fish sauce create a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Versatile: Serve it in lettuce cups, over rice, or even as a taco filling—it’s adaptable for any occasion.
Authentic Flavors: Despite being simplified, this larb recipe stays true to its Thai roots with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy.

This isn’t just another ground turkey recipe—it’s bold, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause after the first bite and say, “Wow.” Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens and herbs without feeling like you’re eating a salad.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This easy Thai larb recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier take. You can also use ground chicken or pork if preferred.
Shallots: Thinly sliced shallots add a mild oniony flavor that complements the herbs.
Fresh mint: The star of the dish! Use whole mint leaves for a burst of freshness.
Cilantro: Adds a herby, citrusy note that ties the flavors together.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for that signature tangy flavor.
Fish sauce: The umami powerhouse—don’t skip it! If you need a substitute, soy sauce can work in a pinch.
Chili flakes: Adjust the spice level to your liking. Thai chili flakes are traditional, but red pepper flakes work too.
Sticky rice powder: Toasted and ground rice adds a nutty flavor and texture. You can make this at home or buy it pre-made.
Sugar: A pinch of sugar balances the acidity and saltiness.
Lettuce leaves: For serving, use crisp lettuce like butter, romaine, or iceberg.

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize, don’t worry—this recipe is forgiving. For example, you can swap out mint for Thai basil or use ground chicken instead of turkey.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe, which is one of the reasons I love it! Here’s what you’ll need:

Non-stick skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground turkey evenly without sticking.
Mixing bowls: For tossing the cooked turkey with the herbs and dressing.
Sharp knife: To finely slice the shallots and herbs.
Mortar and pestle: Optional, but great for grinding toasted rice into powder.
Juicer: For squeezing fresh lime juice quickly.

If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, no worries—you can use a coffee grinder or even crush the toasted rice with a rolling pin in a plastic bag.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to make your vibrant Thai larb with ground turkey and fresh mint:

Toast the rice: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of uncooked sticky rice and toast until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and grind into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
Cook the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound (450g) of ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of chili flakes.
Toss everything together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, shallots, cilantro, mint leaves, and toasted rice powder. Pour the dressing over and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Serve: Spoon the larb into lettuce leaves or serve over steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with additional mint and chili flakes if desired.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Add more lime juice for tang, or an extra dash of fish sauce for saltiness.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t skip the toasted rice: This ingredient is key to authentic larb. It adds a nutty flavor and slight crunch.
Balance the flavors: Thai food is all about the balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. Taste your dressing and adjust accordingly.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh mint and cilantro make a huge difference. Avoid dried herbs, as they won’t have the same vibrant flavor.
Work quickly: Once the turkey is cooked, toss it with the dressing while still warm to help the flavors meld together.

Remember, larb is all about flexibility. You can adjust the spice level, tweak the herbs, and even swap the protein to suit your taste.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up or adapt this recipe for dietary needs? Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian version: Use crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms instead of ground turkey. Increase the toasted rice for extra texture.
Low-carb option: Skip the sticky rice and serve the larb entirely in lettuce cups for a keto-friendly meal.
Seasonal twist: Add diced cucumber or shredded carrots for extra crunch and freshness, especially in summer.
Allergen-friendly: Replace fish sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
Spicy kick: Use fresh Thai chilies instead of chili flakes for an extra fiery version.

I’ve even tried swapping mint for Thai basil, which gives the dish a slightly sweeter and more aromatic profile. It’s all about making it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Thai larb is best enjoyed fresh, but here are some serving and storage tips to get the most out of your dish:

Serving: Serve the larb warm or at room temperature in crisp lettuce cups or over steamed jasmine rice. It also pairs beautifully with chilled cucumber slices or a side of sticky rice.
Beverage pairings: A cold Thai iced tea or a refreshing cucumber lime soda is perfect to balance the spice.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the lettuce separate to maintain crispness.
Reheating: Heat the larb gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of lime juice to revive the flavors.

Fun fact: The flavors of larb deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Thai larb recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition:

Protein-packed: Ground turkey provides a lean source of protein, perfect for muscle building and repair.
Low-calorie: A serving of larb in lettuce cups is light but satisfying, making it a great choice for weight management.
Rich in herbs: Mint and cilantro are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins that support overall health.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your fish sauce is certified gluten-free.

Keep in mind that fish sauce may contain anchovies, so it’s not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Conclusion

Thai larb with ground turkey and fresh mint is the kind of recipe you’ll make over and over again. It’s quick, healthy, and loaded with bold flavors that leave you craving more. I love how versatile it is—you can enjoy it as a light meal, pack it for lunch, or serve it to guests for an impressive dinner.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how you make it your own. Do you add extra spice? Try a new herb combo? I’d love to hear! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!

Happy cooking—you’ve got this!

FAQs

What is larb?

Larb is a traditional Thai salad made with ground meat, fresh herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted rice powder. It’s typically served in lettuce cups or over rice.

Can I make larb ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cooked turkey and dressing ahead of time, but wait to toss with the herbs and toasted rice until just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

It can be! The spice level is adjustable based on how much chili you use. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the chili flakes or omit them.

How long does larb last in the fridge?

Larb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the lettuce separate to avoid sogginess.

Can I use ground pork instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground pork is more traditional and adds a richer flavor. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly.

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