Nam Prik Narok, meaning "hellfire chili paste," isn't for the faint of heart! This fiery Thai condiment packs a serious punch, a vibrant explosion of chili heat balanced by fragrant aromatics and the savory depth of chicken. Forget bland meals; Nam Prik Narok elevates any dish, transforming simple vegetables or grilled meats into a culinary adventure. Its versatility shines – use it as a dip, a sauce, or even a flavorful ingredient in stir-fries. The intense flavor profile stems from a blend of fresh chilies, garlic, shallots, and a touch of fish sauce (though we'll be using a chicken-based alternative for this recipe).
This recipe offers a delicious, accessible twist on the traditional Nam Prik Narok, incorporating tender chicken for added richness and protein. It’s easier to make than you might think, bringing the fiery tastes of Thailand to your kitchen without the need for specialized ingredients. Ready to embark on a spicy journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below to create your own batch of this addictive chicken-infused chili paste.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Blender (optional)
- Frying pan
- Pot
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 1 piece
- Small dried chili peppers
- Large dried chili peppers
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Salt
- Sugar
- Tamarind juice
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Chili Base
- Boil the chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of salt and enough water until cooked (about 20 minutes).
- Cut the cooked chicken into small pieces.
- Pound or blend the chicken until fine and fluffy.
- They may be roasted or fried first, but blending uncooked keeps the color brighter.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics
- Finely slice and then fry the garlic until light yellow using low heat.
- Fry the shallots until golden yellow.
Step 3. Combine and Cook the Nam Prik Narok
- In a pan, heat oil and add the chicken, followed by the small dried chili peppers, large dried chili peppers, garlic, and shallots. Stir-fry over low heat until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4. Season and Finish
- Add sugar, salt, tamarind juice, and optional seasoning powder. Continue to stir-fry until the mixture is crumbly and dry.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Don't overcook the garlic; it will become bitter.
- Using chicken allows better control over saltiness compared to fish.
Nutrition
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Start with fewer chilies, taste as you go, and add more to your preference. You can also use milder chili varieties.
2. What can I serve Nam Prik Narok with?
It's incredibly versatile! Enjoy it with grilled meats, steamed vegetables, boiled eggs, sticky rice, or even as a topping for noodles.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftover Nam Prik Narok in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will even deepen over time.
This easy Nam Prik Narok recipe delivers an authentically spicy Thai experience without the fish sauce, making it accessible to a wider range of palates. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and fiery kick, experimenting with different accompaniments to discover your favorite combinations. Now go forth and conquer your taste buds with this incredibly delicious and addictive chili paste!