Mandalay Grated Carrot Salad

1. Prepare Carrots

Place the grated carrots into a large mortar or bowl. Add the fresh lime juice and fish sauce. Use a wooden spoon to lightly pound or press the mixture for several minutes until the carrots start to break down slightly and absorb the lime juice and fish sauce.

2. Mix Seasonings

Transfer the carrots to a serving plate or shallow bowl. Sprinkle the dried shrimp powder and toasted chickpea flour over the carrots, then toss everything together until evenly combined.

3. Add Spices

Add the minced green cayenne chile and salt to the carrot mixture. Toss again to ensure the spices are well distributed throughout the salad.

4. Finalize Salad

Just before serving, add the chopped roasted peanuts and fried shallots to the salad. Give it a gentle toss to mix these crunchy elements into the salad.

5. Add Fresh Herbs

Add the chopped coriander. Toss the salad one last time to ensure everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.