Thai Spicy Fish Cakes

Thai spicy fish cakes, known as "Tod Mun Pla," are a flavorful dish that brings a taste of Thailand to your kitchen. These delightful treats are made from minced fish, aromatic herbs, and spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both savory and slightly spicy.

Traditionally served as an appetizer or snack, Thai spicy fish cakes can be enjoyed with a tangy dipping sauce, often made from sweet chili sauce or a spicy, homemade dip. Their combination of textures and flavors makes them a popular choice in Thai cuisine.

Ingredients for Thai Spicy Fish Cakes

To prepare these delectable fish cakes, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 500g of white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
  • 2-3 tablespoons of red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of green beans, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • Oil for frying
  • Lettuce leaves or cucumber slices for serving

How to Make Thai Spicy Fish Cakes

Follow these simple steps to create your Thai spicy fish cakes:

  1. Begin by placing the fish fillets in a food processor and blending them until smooth. This will be the base for your fish cakes.

  2. Add the red curry paste, fish sauce, sugar, and egg to the blended fish. Pulse until everything is well combined.

  3. Stir in the finely chopped green beans and cilantro, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

  4. Using your hands, form the fish mixture into small round patties. You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but typically, a thickness of about 1.5 cm works well.

  5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the fish cakes in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it.

  6. Fry the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

  7. Remove the fish cakes from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Thai spicy fish cakes are best served hot, accompanied by a side of sweet chili sauce or a spicy dip made with lime juice, fish sauce, and chopped chilies. You can also serve them on a bed of lettuce or with cucumber slices for added freshness.

Tips for the Best Fish Cakes

  • Choose fresh fish for the best flavor. Frozen fish can work in a pinch, but fresh fish will yield superior taste and texture.

  • Feel free to adjust the level of spice by modifying the amount of red curry paste according to your heat preference.

  • Experiment with other herbs such as Thai basil or mint to give a unique twist to the classic recipe.

Thai spicy fish cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. Easy to make and delicious, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply treating yourself. Enjoy the journey into Thai gastronomy with every bite!