Gaeng Pla, or Northern Thai Spicy Fish Stew, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the unique culinary traditions of Northern Thailand. Unlike its milder Southern counterparts, Gaeng Pla boasts a fiery kick thanks to an abundance of chilies, lemongrass, and galangal. This rich, fragrant stew is typically made with a firm white fish, though other options work equally well. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy makes it an unforgettable culinary experience. Its complex flavor profile stems from a carefully balanced blend of ingredients, creating a depth of taste that lingers long after the last spoonful.
The tantalizing aroma of Gaeng Pla alone is enough to make your mouth water, promising a journey for the senses. This recipe expertly guides you through each step of preparing this delicious Northern Thai specialty. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create your own authentic Gaeng Pla? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Fish
- Tomatoes
- Green chilies
- Red chilies
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Turmeric
- Lemongrass
- Galangal
- Fish sauce
- Palm sugar
- Thai basil
- Vegetable oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Aromatics
- Prepare the ingredients. Clean and cut the fish into pieces. Finely chop the chilies, shallots, garlic, turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Fish
- Heat vegetable oil in a pot. Add the shallots, garlic, and chilies; saute until fragrant.
- Add the turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal; stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the fish pieces and stir-fry until lightly browned.
Step 3. Simmer in Broth and Season
- Pour in water to cover the fish. Add fish sauce and palm sugar to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Add the tomatoes.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Stir in the Thai basil and serve hot with rice.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chilies according to your spice preference.
- You can add other vegetables like eggplant or yardlong beans to the stew.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of different types of chilies.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-350
- Fat: 10-20g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish for Gaeng Pla?
Yes! Firm, white fish like catfish, tilapia, or snapper work best. Avoid oily fish as they can alter the flavor.
2. What if I don't have all the listed spices?
Don't worry! You can substitute similar spices. For example, if you lack galangal, you can use more ginger. Adjust the chili quantity to suit your spice preference.
Enjoy the incredible flavors of your homemade Gaeng Pla! This vibrant stew is perfect served with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this authentic taste of Northern Thailand!