Tea Leaf Dressing
The Soul of Burmese Cuisine
Why This Recipe Works
Fermented tea leaves are the star of Myanmar's most famous dish. This dressing transforms the bitter, savory leaves into a smooth, addictive paste that powers the legendary tea leaf salad.
Instructions
Soak unseasoned tea leaves in cold water for 5 minutes to remove excess bitterness, then drain and squeeze dry. Repeat if they remain overly sharp.
Pulse the leaves in a food processor with the garlic and chiles until broken down.
Add the citrus juice and half the oil, then slowly drizzle in the remaining oil while the processor is running until a paste forms.
Season with salt to taste and store in the refrigerator, where it will develop a deeper flavor over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.