Spicy Tilapia Chili Paste (Pla Ra Pla Nil): Easy Thai Recipe

Updated at: 06/02/2025

Craving an authentic Thai flavor explosion? Look no further than Pla Ra Pla Nil, a spicy tilapia chili paste that's surprisingly easy to make at home. This vibrant condiment, featuring fermented fish, fiery chilies, and aromatic herbs, is a cornerstone of Thai cuisine, adding a unique depth and complexity to countless dishes. Forget bland takeout; with this recipe, you'll unlock the secrets to creating a truly unforgettable chili paste that rivals any restaurant version. Its pungent aroma and bold flavor will transform your cooking.

This recipe simplifies the traditional process, guiding you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. From selecting the freshest ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of spice and savoriness, we'll ensure you achieve delicious results. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to making your own incredible Pla Ra Pla Nil.

Tools Needed

  • Mortar and pestle
  • Pot
  • Pan

Ingredients

  • Tilapia: 2 small
  • Salt
  • Fish sauce
  • Ajinda chili
  • Shallots
  • Garlic
  • Young chili/Bell pepper
  • MSG

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Aromatics

  • Wash the tilapia thoroughly with salt to remove any fishy smell. If frozen, allow it to thaw completely.
  • Boil the tilapia until cooked. Remove the bones and flake the fish meat.
  • Roast the shallots and garlic until slightly cooked. Add the chilies (Ajinda chili, young chili, and bell peppers) and roast until cooked and slightly burnt for aroma.
  • Pound the roasted chilies, shallots, and garlic until finely or coarsely ground.
Wash the tilapia thoroughly with salt to remove any fishy smell. If frozen, allow it to thaw completely.Boil the tilapia until cooked. Remove the bones and flake the fish meat.Roast the shallots and garlic until slightly cooked. Add the chilies (Ajinda chili, young chili, and bell peppers) and roast until cooked and slightly burnt for aroma.Pound the roasted chilies, shallots, and garlic until finely or coarsely ground.
Prepare the Tilapia and Aromatics
  • Pound the cooked tilapia meat until fine.
Pound the cooked tilapia meat until fine.
Prepare the Tilapia and Aromatics

Step 2. Make the Chili Paste

  • Combine the pounded tilapia, chili mixture, fish sauce (from boiling the fish), and MSG. Adjust seasoning to taste. You can make it thicker or thinner depending on your preference.
Combine the pounded tilapia, chili mixture, fish sauce (from boiling the fish), and MSG. Adjust seasoning to taste. You can make it thicker or thinner depending on your preference.
Make the Chili Paste

Step 3. Season and Adjust

  • Combine the pounded tilapia, chili mixture, fish sauce (from boiling the fish), and MSG. Adjust seasoning to taste. You can make it thicker or thinner depending on your preference.
Combine the pounded tilapia, chili mixture, fish sauce (from boiling the fish), and MSG. Adjust seasoning to taste. You can make it thicker or thinner depending on your preference.
Season and Adjust

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve with hot rice or sticky rice.
Serve with hot rice or sticky rice.
Serve

Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)

Tips

  • Use salt to scoop out the tilapia intestines to prevent fishy smell.
  • Bell peppers add texture and reduce spiciness.
  • Don't add too much fish sauce to avoid excessive saltiness.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200-300
  • Fat: 5-10g
  • Carbs: 10-15g
  • Protein: 20-25g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the tilapia with another type of fish?

While tilapia is traditional, you can experiment with other firm white fish like catfish or cod. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

2. How long will the Pla Ra Pla Nil last?

Store your homemade Pla Ra Pla Nil in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 2-3 weeks.


Making your own Pla Ra Pla Nil is a rewarding experience, allowing you to control the spice level and ingredients for a truly personalized flavor. This versatile paste elevates any dish it touches, from curries and noodles to stir-fries and even as a dipping sauce. So, get cooking and enjoy the incredible depth of flavor this homemade chili paste brings to your Thai culinary adventures!