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1
Make the dipping sauce: Combine ingredients in a small serving bowl, making sure to dissolve the sugar.
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2
Leave to ripen for 15 minutes.
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3
Refrigerate any extra and use within a few days.
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4
Make the peanut dressing: In a blender or small food processor, puree all ingredients to a smooth sauce, about the thickness of heavy cream.
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5
Pour into a serving bowl.
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6
Put the chicken thighs in a low-sided bowl.
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7
To make the marinade, puree the garlic, ginger, lemon grass, fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar and cayenne in a blender or small food processor.
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8
Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat.
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9
Let marinate at least 15 minutes.
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10
Bring a large pot of water to the boil, then turn off the heat.
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11
Add the rice vermicelli and soak for 7 to 8 minutes.
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12
(Package directions may vary; check for doneness by tasting).
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13
Drain when noodles are al dente, and cool under running water.
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14
Fluff and leave in strainer to drain well.
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15
Grill the chicken over coals on a stove-top grill pan, or under the broiler until nicely browned, about 3 to 4 minutes a side.
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16
Let cool slightly, then chop roughly into 3/4-inch pieces.
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17
In a small bowl, dress the cucumbers, carrots and mung bean sprouts with 1 tablespoon dipping sauce.
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18
Divide the cooked noodles among 4 bowls.
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19
Top each bowl equally with the cucumber mixture and chopped chicken.
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20
Spoon 2 teaspoons dipping sauce and 2 tablespoons peanut dressing over each portion.
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21
Add the basil, mint and cilantro sprigs, torn or roughly chopped (leave whole if leaves are small).
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22
Sprinkle with the scallions and crushed peanuts.
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23
Serve with lime wedges, and pass small bowls of the two sauces.