Nam Prik Ong (Thai Pork-and-Tomato Chile Dip) Recipe

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Are you craving a spicy and flavorful dip to accompany your favorite Thai dishes?

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Nam Prik Ong (Thai Pork-and-Tomato Chile Dip) Recipe
Total
1 hr
Servings
6

Method

  1. Heat spur chiles in a dry wok or skillet over medium-low heat until fragrant and darker in color, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool on a plate.

  2. Remove the stems from the cooled chiles and transfer them to a granite mortar and pestle.

  3. Place plum tomatoes in the same wok or skillet and cook over medium-high heat until charred all over, about 5 minutes. Transfer the tomatoes to a plate and let them cool.

  4. If using tua nao, toast it using a gas burner, under a broiler, or with a culinary torch until it turns hazelnut brown with leopard spots. Transfer it to the plate with the tomatoes to cool.

  5. Pound the chiles in the mortar and pestle until they become a coarse powder.

  6. Add lemongrass to the mortar and pestle and pound until fine.

  7. Add garlic and shallots to the mortar and pestle and pound until a coarse paste forms with some larger pieces remaining.

  8. Add shrimp paste and tua nao (if using) to the mortar and pestle and pound until well-incorporated.

  9. Add the charred plum tomatoes to the mortar and pestle and gently pound until they break down and are incorporated into the paste. Transfer the paste to a small bowl.

  10. In a separate small bowl, combine water, fish sauce, soybean paste, soy sauce, and sugar.

About this recipe

Are you craving a spicy and flavorful dip to accompany your favorite Thai dishes? Look no further than Nam Prik Ong! This classic Thai pork-and-tomato chile dip is a delicious blend of ingredients that will take your taste buds on a tantalizing journey.

What is Nam Prik Ong?

If you're not familiar with Nam Prik Ong, it's a beloved traditional Thai dip that originates from the northern region of Thailand. This vibrant dip is made with ground pork, tomatoes, chilies, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. The result is a rich and spicy dip that pairs perfectly with crispy vegetables, sticky rice, or even as a condiment for grilled meats.

How to Make Nam Prik Ong

Creating this mouthwatering dip is a breeze. Start by sautéing ground pork in a hot pan until it's cooked through and nicely browned. Then, add in diced tomatoes, red chilies, garlic, and shallots. The combination of flavors will start to fill your kitchen with an enticing aroma.

Next, it's time to season your dip. Add in shrimp paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar for a burst of umami, saltiness, and sweetness. These ingredients work together to create a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Let everything simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Once your Nam Prik Ong is ready, serve it up with an array of fresh vegetables, such as cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or Thai eggplants. The cool and crisp texture of the veggies complements the spicy and savory dip, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Why You'll Love Nam Prik Ong

Nam Prik Ong is not your average dip. With its complex flavors and fiery kick, it's a dip that will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more. The combination of juicy tomatoes, tender pork, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Thailand.

Additionally, Nam Prik Ong is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a dip, a sauce, or even as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. Its versatility allows you to get creative in the kitchen and explore different ways to incorporate this delicious dip into your meals.

In Conclusion

Nam Prik Ong is a delightful Thai dip that will elevate your meals to new heights. Its fiery and flavorful nature will leave you craving for more. Whether you're hosting a Thai-inspired dinner party or simply want to add some excitement to your everyday meals, Nam Prik Ong is the perfect choice. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the vibrant flavors of this dip transport you to the vibrant streets of Thailand!

Frequently asked questions

Can I make Nam Prik Ong vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the ground pork with tofu or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian version of Nam Prik Ong.

How long does Nam Prik Ong last in the refrigerator?

Nam Prik Ong can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Is Nam Prik Ong spicy?

Yes, Nam Prik Ong is known for its spiciness. However, you can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chilies according to your preference.

Can I freeze Nam Prik Ong?

While it's best to consume Nam Prik Ong fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.

What dishes can I pair with Nam Prik Ong?

Nam Prik Ong complements a wide range of Thai dishes, such as sticky rice, grilled meats, noodles, and even as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings.

Can I adjust the ingredients to suit my taste?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. You can add more spices, herbs, or even a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing.

Can I make Nam Prik Ong ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Nam Prik Ong ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.

Is Nam Prik Ong gluten-free?

Yes, Nam Prik Ong is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if you need to avoid gluten.

Where can I find the ingredients for Nam Prik Ong?

You can find the ingredients for Nam Prik Ong at your local Asian grocery store or online. Look for Thai chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce to ensure an authentic taste.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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