How to Make Thai Crispy Prawn Cakes (Tod Mun Goong)
Thai crispy prawn cakes, also known as Tod Mun Goong, are a beloved dish that combines the delightful flavors of fresh prawns with aromatic Thai herbs and spices. These crispy treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack and are often enjoyed with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these delicious prawn cakes at home.
Ingredients
To create authentic Thai crispy prawn cakes, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g fresh prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon green curry paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander (cilantro)
- 1 tablespoon chopped spring onions
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure that the mixture holds together better.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
In a food processor, combine the prepared prawns, green curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt, coriander, and spring onions. Pulse the mixture until it is finely blended but still retains some texture. Be careful not to over-process it; you want to maintain some prawn chunks for the best bite.
Step 3: Form the Cakes
Once the mixture is ready, take a small amount in your hands and shape it into small round or oval cakes. Aim for about 2-3 cm thick. Use damp hands to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Place the breadcrumbs on a shallow plate and coat each prawn cake thoroughly in breadcrumbs. This will help create a crispy exterior once fried.
Step 5: Fry the Prawn Cakes
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing it with a small piece of the prawn mix – it should sizzle upon contact. Carefully add the prawn cakes to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn a golden brown and are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious Thai crispy prawn cakes hot, accompanied by a sweet chili dipping sauce or a homemade tangy sauce made with lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Garnish with fresh herbs like coriander and slices of cucumber for a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
Making Thai crispy prawn cakes at home is a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can impress your family and friends with a dish that’s sure to delight their taste buds. Enjoy your culinary adventure!