Saku Sai Moo is a delicious and savory Thai snack made from chewy tapioca pearls filled with a flavorful pork filling. The combination of the tender, seasoned pork inside the translucent tapioca pearls creates a delightful contrast in texture, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy Thai street food. Often served with a side of sweet chili sauce or vinegar for dipping, this dish is a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tapioca flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 200g ground pork
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Directions:
- Make the Tapioca Dough:
- In a bowl, mix the tapioca flour and water until smooth. Stir until a dough-like consistency forms. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pork Filling:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and shallot, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the pork is fully browned.
- Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, soy sauce, and white pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Optional: Add shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Form the Tapioca Pearls:
- Take small portions of the tapioca dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a marble.
- Flatten each ball into a disc shape in the palm of your hand.
- Place a small spoonful of the pork filling in the center and carefully fold the edges over the filling to seal the dough, forming a round, stuffed ball.
- Cook the Saku Sai Moo:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the stuffed tapioca pearls into the boiling water. Boil for 4-5 minutes or until the pearls become translucent and float to the surface.
- Remove the pearls from the water with a slotted spoon and set them on a plate to drain.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sweet chili sauce or vinegar on the side for dipping.
Enjoy this savory Thai treat as a snack or appetizer!
