Namprik - Thailand's hot chili paste🌶️
Since we are often asked what Namprik actually is and how to use it, we would like to shed some light on the matter.
What is Namprik?
Namprik, also known as Nam Prik, is a traditional Thai chili paste that is widely used in Thai cuisine. The term "Namprik" is composed of the Thai words "Nam" (water) and "Prik" (chili), which literally means "chili water". This paste is known for its intense spiciness and complex flavor, which is created by combining chili peppers, garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar
Varieties of Namprik
There are many different varieties of Namprik, which can vary depending on the region and family recipe. Some of the best-known include:
- Nam Prik Pao Moo: This variety is made from roasted chilies, garlic, shallots, tamarindo, and pork, and has a smoky-sweet note
- Nam Prik Tadaeng: A chili paste that impresses with its spicy, salty, and slightly sweet blend of dried red chilies, fish sauce, palm coconut sugar, tamarindo, and mackerel fillet
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Nam Prik Narok: also known as "chili paste from hell", is an extremely spicy Thai chili paste made mainly from dried chilies, garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, fish sauce, and palm coconut sugar.
Uses of Namprik
Namprik is extremely versatile and can be used in various ways:
- As a dip: Namprik is often used as a dip for fresh or steamed vegetables, meat, and seafood. It is a staple of many Thai meals and is often served with a selection of fresh vegetables.
- In soups and curries: Namprik can be used as a base for soups and curries to add extra depth and spiciness to these dishes.
- As a marinade: The paste is excellent as a marinade for meat and fish, as it gives the ingredients an intense flavor.
- As a bread spread: Namprik can also be used as a savory bread spread to give sandwiches and toast a special touch.
Namprik as a miracle cure
In addition to its intense flavor, Namprik offers other benefits. The chilies it contains are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can strengthen the immune system. It is also believed that the paste can help with stomach problems and colds.
Conclusion on chili pastes
Namprik is an essential ingredient in Thai cuisine that impresses with its versatility and intense flavor. Whether as a dip, in soups, as a marinade, or as a bread spread – this chili paste gives every dish a special touch and brings the aromas of Thailand directly to your plate.
Of course, we make all our chili pastes ourselves and fresh. Completely without preservatives, flavor enhancers, or any other nonsense.
Making Namprik
You can see how we make Namprik in our video - homemade, no video team or studio. So it's not perfect 🤣
