How to Make Buah Pelam Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Buah Pelam, known as mango in Malay, is a beloved fruit featured in many Malaysian dishes. This healthy Buah Pelam salad is a vibrant lunch option, celebrated across Malaysia for its refreshing flavors and nutritional value. Mangoes, or 'buah pelam', are abundant in Malaysia, lending their sweet-tart profile to salads, sambals, and even desserts. The dish embodies Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine, blending influences from Malay, Indian, and Chinese communities, using local ingredients like cili padi (bird’s eye chili), limau nipis (lime), and fresh herbs. This Buah Pelam salad is a testament to Malaysia’s love for fresh produce, balancing sweet, sour, and spicy notes. Perfect for lunch, it’s light yet satisfying, making it a popular choice for health-conscious Malaysians. The use of natural ingredients such as mangga muda (young mango), daun ketumbar (coriander leaves), and kacang tanah (peanuts) creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Traditionally served during hot afternoons, it’s a dish that showcases Malaysia’s tropical bounty and culinary heritage.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Mangga muda (young mango) (Buah pelam, peeled and julienned)
- 1/4 cup Daun ketumbar (coriander leaves) (Finely chopped)
- 3 Cili padi (bird’s eye chili) (Thinly sliced)
- 1 Limau nipis (lime) (Juiced)
- 1/4 cup Kacang tanah (peanuts) (Roasted, crushed)
- 1 Bawang merah (shallots) (Thinly sliced)
- 1/2 tsp Garam (salt) (To taste)
- 1 tbsp Gula melaka (palm sugar) (Grated)
- 1/4 tsp Serbuk lada hitam (black pepper) (Freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Daun pudina (mint leaves) (Optional garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash and peel the mangga muda
Wash and peel the mangga muda. Julienne or thinly slice the mango for optimal texture.
Step 2 · Prepare the other vegetables: finely chop daun ketumbar
Prepare the other vegetables: finely chop daun ketumbar, slice shallots, and cut cili padi.
Step 3 · In a large bowl
In a large bowl, combine the mango, daun ketumbar, shallots, and cili padi.
Step 4 · Add lime juice
Add lime juice, salt, and palm sugar to the bowl. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 5 · Add crushed peanuts and freshly ground black pepper
Add crushed peanuts and freshly ground black pepper. Mix again.
Step 6 · Garnish with daun pudina and serve immediately
Garnish with daun pudina and serve immediately.
Step 7 · Chill for 10 minutes if desired before serving
Chill for 10 minutes if desired before serving.
Why this recipe is healthy
This salad features whole, unprocessed ingredients commonly found in Malaysia. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. The absence of refined sugars and oils makes it ideal for weight management and heart health. Using lime and palm sugar as the main dressing ensures a natural, clean flavor profile without unnecessary additives.
A note on tradition
Buah Pelam salad is popular in northern states like Kedah and Perlis, where mangoes are plentiful. It’s commonly served during family gatherings and festive occasions. The dish highlights Malaysia’s tropical produce and is enjoyed as a refreshing lunch or side dish, especially during the hot season.