The Most Popular Thai Shrimp Mezes

Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, and when it comes to appetizers or 'mezes', shrimp takes center stage. Here are some of the most popular Thai shrimp mezes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Shrimp Spring Rolls (Po Pia Koong)
These fresh spring rolls are a quintessential Thai appetizer. Made with rice paper, they are often filled with shrimp, fresh vegetables, and herbs like mint and basil. Typically served with a sweet chili dipping sauce, these rolls offer a refreshing starter that’s light yet satisfying.

Shrimp Cakes (Tod Man Goong)
A favorite among seafood lovers, shrimp cakes are deep-fried to golden perfection. These cakes are made from minced shrimp mixed with curry paste and various herbs. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are often served with a sweet and tangy cucumber relish, enhancing their flavor profile.

Shrimp Satay
This dish features marinated shrimp skewers grilled to perfection and served with a rich peanut sauce. The marinade typically includes coconut milk, curry powder, and turmeric, which give the shrimp a unique taste. Satay is a great choice for those looking to enjoy something smoky and aromatic.

Shrimp Papaya Salad (Som Tum Goong)
Som Tum is a spicy Thai salad made from green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and, of course, shrimp. The dish is characterized by its balance of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors, thanks to the combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The crunchy texture of the papaya complements the tender shrimp, making it a delightful meze.

Spicy Shrimp Soup (Tom Yum Goong)
Though often considered a soup, Tom Yum Goong is served as an appetizer in many Thai meals. The famous hot and sour soup contains shrimp, mushrooms, and fragrant herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Its bold flavors make it an essential starter for any Thai feast.

Shrimp and Coconut Soup (Tom Kha Goong)
This milder alternative to Tom Yum is a creamy coconut-based soup with shrimp, galangal, lemongrass, and cilantro. It unveils an exquisite balance of flavors, combining the richness of coconut milk with the tanginess of lime juice. This comforting soup is often enjoyed as an appetizer and is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce
This dish features succulent shrimp marinated in tamarind pulp and spices, then grilled to perfection. The tangy and slightly sweet tamarind sauce enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Served hot off the grill, it's a meze that brings a burst of flavor to the table.

Shrimp on Toast (Goong Song Krob)
These crispy shrimp toasts are a popular choice in Thai households. Made by spreading a shrimp paste over a slice of bread and then frying it, these treats are crunchy, savory, and often accompanied by a sweet chili sauce for dipping. They are perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings.

The world of Thai shrimp mezes is as diverse as it is delicious. From fresh and light options like shrimp spring rolls to hearty and comforting soups, these dishes reflect the essence of Thai culinary traditions. Enjoying these mezes is not just about tasting exquisite flavors; it's also about experiencing the joy of Thai culture one bite at a time.