Khao Pad Nam Prik Pao - Fried Rice with Thai Chili Paste
Nam Prik is a traditional Thai chili paste used in many dishes to add a spicy and aromatic note. It consists mainly of dried chilies, garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, and other spices, which are processed together into a thick paste. Nam Prik comes in various versions, ranging from mild to very spicy, and can be used both as a dip and as an ingredient in various dishes.
Fried rice is a popular dish in Thai cuisine and is excellent for using up leftover rice from the day before. Stir-frying in a wok gives the rice a slightly crispy texture and allows it to absorb the flavors of the added ingredients well. Combined with our Nam Prik Pao, the fried rice becomes a flavorful and spicy dish that is quick and easy to prepare. The addition of vegetables, meat or shrimp, and eggs makes the dish a complete meal that is both filling and delicious.
Ingredients for 3 - 4 servings of fried rice - Khao Pad Nam Prik Pao
Preparation takes no more than 15 minutes
Simply follow our recipe.
| Cooked rice (preferably from the day before) | 2 cups |
| Nam Prik Pao paste | 1 - 2 tbsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Shallot, finely chopped | 2 |
| Garlic clove, finely chopped | 2 |
| Carrot, diced | 1 |
| Bell pepper, sliced | 1 |
| Shrimp, tofu, or chicken | 100g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Spring onion, sliced into rings | 2 |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Fresh cilantro and limes for garnish | to taste |
Preparation of Khao Pad Nam Prik Pao
1. Preparation: Have all ingredients ready and break up the leftover rice.
2. Heat wok: Heat the wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
3. Sauté Nam Prik: Add the chili paste (Nam Prik) to the wok and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add vegetables: Add onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper to the wok and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
5. Meat or shrimp: If using, add the chicken or shrimp and cook until done.
6. Add eggs: Crack the eggs into the wok and scramble until set.
7. Add rice: Add the cooked rice and mix well with the other ingredients.
8. Season: Add oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar and mix everything well.
9. Spring onions: Add the spring onions and briefly stir-fry.
10. Serve: Portion the fried rice onto plates and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Did you know...?
No soy sauce: Unlike Chinese fried rice, Khao Pad is traditionally prepared without soy sauce. Instead, fish sauce and oyster sauce are used to achieve the typical Thai flavor.
Jasmine rice: Khao Pad is prepared with fragrant jasmine rice, which gives the dish a special touch. Jasmine rice is very popular in Thai cuisine and differs from the long-grain white rice used in Chinese recipes.
No cutlery: In Thailand, fried rice is usually not eaten with chopsticks. Chopsticks are reserved more for noodle dishes that originate in China. Instead, Khao Pad is served with a spoon and a fork.
Street food: Khao Pad is a popular street food in Thailand and is often offered at street stalls and in small restaurants. It is a quick and simple dish that is perfect for a fast meal on the go.
Versatility: Khao Pad can be prepared with various proteins such as chicken, pork, shrimp, or crab meat. This versatility makes it a dish that can be easily adapted to different tastes and preferences.
