Thai Roasted Chili Paste (Nahm Prik Pao)

May 20, 2023May 20, 20230 14

Thai Roasted Chili Paste (Nahm Prik Pao) recipe for your Thai food cravings

by The Chefin Condiment

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1/2 cup small dried red chilies such as chiles de arbol , stemmed halved crosswise and loosely packed ( about 32 ) or 1/2 cup chile , japones stemmed halved crosswise and loosely packed ( about 32 )
	1/2 cup shallot , unpeeled , cut into chunks , about 3 ounces
	1/4 cup garlic clove , unpeeled
	1/2 cup vegetable oil
	3 tablespoons palm sugar or 3 tablespoons brown sugar
	3 tablespoons tamarind juice
	1 tablespoon soy sauce
	1 teaspoon salt

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

170

Sugar

Fat

16g

Thai Roasted Chili Paste (Nahm Prik Pao) is a staple condiment in Thai cuisine, known for its hot and sweet flavors. This paste is made with dried red chilies, shallot, garlic, palm sugar, tamarind juice, and soy sauce. It can be served as a dipping sauce for fried foods like chicken and fish, or used as a marinade for meat and vegetables. The thick and slightly oily texture of the paste helps to bind flavors together and give dishes that authentic Thai taste. Overall, this paste is a must-try for anyone looking to add some spice and flavor to their meals.

Instructions

1.	Rinse and dry the dried chilies and toast them in a dry skillet over low heat until they are fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2.	In the same pan, dry roast the shallots and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3.	In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, coarsely grind the chilies, shallots, and garlic.
4.	In a small saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground chili mixture and stir until the oil is red, about 4-5 minutes.
5.	Reduce the heat to medium and mix in the palm sugar, tamarind juice, soy sauce, and salt. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it forms a thick paste, about 10-15 minutes.
6.	Once done, let the paste cool before storing it in airtight jars or containers.

PROS

Thai Roasted Chili Paste (Nahm Prik Pao) is a versatile condiment that can enhance the flavor of many dishes.

It has a spicy, sweet, and savory taste and can be used as a dipping sauce or added to stir-frys, marinades, and soups.

CONS

This paste contains a lot of chili and oil, which can be too spicy for some and high in calories.

People with sensitive stomachs may also experience digestive discomfort from consuming this food.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Thai Roasted Chili Paste (Nahm Prik Pao) contains capsaicin, a compound that gives chili peppers their spicy taste. Capsaicin has been shown to boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and even improve heart health. Additionally, the tamarind and soy sauce in the paste provide a good source of antioxidants and nutrients like iron and potassium.