LAMB LARB

Steps:

• Remove tough outer layers from lemongrass, cut 4" piece from bulb end, thinly slice, save remaining lemongrass for another use. Pulse lemongrass and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped. Add cilantro stems (reserve leaves for another use), shallot, and 1-2 Thai chiles, depending on how hot you like it, and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer to a large bowl; set aside. Pulse peanuts in food processor until coarsely ground and transfer to a small bowl; set aside. Thinly slice remaining chiles; set aside for serving.
• Whisk lime juice, fish sauce, and demerara sugar in a small bowl; set lime dressing aside.
• Heat oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over high. Add lamb to skillet and press into a single flat layer with a flexible spatula. Cook, undisturbed, until underside is browned and crisp around the edges, 5-7 minutes. Use spatula to break patty into smaller pieces and turn. Cook pieces on the other side until edges are crisp and meat is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer lamb to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon, then use spoon to break up meat into small pieces.
• Pour off all but 3 Tbsp. fat from skillet and set skillet over medium heat. Cook lemongrass mixture, stirring often, until fragrant and starting to stick to skillet, about 3 minutes. Add reserved lime dressing and peanuts and return reserved lamb to skillet. Toss until meat is coated. Remove from heat and season with more fish sauce, if desired.
• Serve larb with rice, lettuce, cucumber, limes, mint sprigs, cilantro sprigs, and reserved chiles for making lettuce cups.