Yam Woon Sen (ยำวุ้นเส้น) Recipe | Authentic Thai Glass Noodle Salad

What is Yam Woon Sen?

Yam Woon Sen is a Thai glass noodle salad, celebrated for:

• Glass noodles (Woon Sen): Soft, chewy noodles made from mung bean starch

• Protein options: Shrimp, minced pork, chicken, or tofu

• Fresh vegetables: Carrots, onions, tomatoes, celery, or chili

• Signature dressing: A combination of lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili for a tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor

The dish is refreshing, light, and full of flavor, making it a favorite for Thai street food lovers and home cooks alike.

Ingredients (Serves 2-3)

Salad Base

• 100g glass noodles (woon sen)

• 150g shrimp, minced pork

• 1 small carrot, julienned

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1–2 fresh chilies, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 tbsp celery, chopped

• Fresh coriander for garnish

Dressing

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 1/2 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp roasted chili flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glass Noodles

• Soak glass noodles in warm water for 10–15 minutes until soft, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Protein

• Minced pork add water and cook briefly in a pan until just done. Let it cool slightly.  We'll need the pork cooking stock later.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Stir until sugar dissolves.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine glass noodles, pork, pork cooking stock, vegetables, and celery.

• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with fresh coriander and serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light meal.

Tips for Perfect Yam Woon Sen

• Glass noodles: Don’t over-soak or overcook; they should remain slightly chewy.

• Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar to suit your taste.

• Protein: Shrimp and pork are classic, but tofu works well for a vegetarian option.

• Vegetables: Use a variety of crunchy vegetables to add texture and freshness.

• Serving: Best served fresh; avoid refrigerating for long as noodles may harden.

Why You’ll Love This Yam Woon Sen Recipe

✔ Refreshing, tangy, and slightly spicy
✔ Quick and easy to make at home
✔ Healthy with fresh vegetables and protein
✔ Authentic Thai street food flavor