How to Make Thai-Style Fried Shrimp Cakes

Thai-style fried shrimp cakes, or "Tod Man Goong," are a delicious and crispy dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. These savory cakes are perfect as appetizers or snacks and are usually served with a tangy dipping sauce. Follow this guide to create authentic Thai shrimp cakes right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

To make Thai-style fried shrimp cakes, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup of green beans, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Thai red curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • Rice flour (for coating)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by finely chopping half of the shrimp. The other half can be coarsely chopped or left whole, depending on your texture preference. This combination will give your cakes a delightful bite.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, green beans, cilantro, egg, fish sauce, red curry paste, and sugar. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Form the Cakes

Wet your hands to prevent sticking and take a small amount of the mixture to form a patty. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into cakes.

Step 4: Coat the Cakes

Lightly dust each patty with rice flour. This will help achieve a crispy exterior once fried.

Step 5: Fry the Cakes

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few shrimp cakes in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the fried shrimp cakes from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, typically a sweet chili sauce or a spicy lime sauce, for an authentic Thai experience.

Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp Cakes

  • Freshness Matters: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red curry paste according to your heat preference.
  • Chill the Mixture: If time permits, refrigerate the shrimp mixture for 30 minutes before shaping, as this helps the cakes hold together better while frying.

Enjoy your homemade Thai-style fried shrimp cakes as a delightful snack or appetizer, and impress your family and friends with this authentic dish!