Salted fish fried with eggs, or Pla Ra Khai Dao, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Thai dish that's quick to make and bursting with umami. This humble comfort food, beloved throughout Thailand, showcases the magic of fermented fish – a staple ingredient offering a depth of taste unlike any other. The salty, slightly pungent aroma of the salted fish perfectly complements the rich, creamy texture of the eggs, creating a harmonious balance that's both satisfying and surprisingly addictive. Don't let the unusual ingredient intimidate you; the process is surprisingly straightforward.
The key to a truly delicious Salted Fish Fried with Eggs lies in the quality of the salted fish and a few simple techniques. This recipe will guide you through selecting the right ingredients and mastering the perfect frying technique to achieve that crispy-edged, perfectly cooked result. Ready to experience the authentic taste of Thailand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delightful dish together.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Container
Ingredients
- Salted fish egg: 1 piece
- Garlic
- Sugar
- MSG
- Green chili
- Red chili
- Lime: 1-2 pieces
- Shallots
- Eggs: 5 (small)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Fry the Fish
- Fry the salted fish until fragrant. Wash thoroughly and pat dry before frying to reduce saltiness.
- Shred the cooked salted fish into small pieces. Remove any bones.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Eggs
- Add chopped garlic and stir-fry until slightly yellow. The garlic's aroma will help mask the fishy smell.
- Add the eggs and stir until cooked.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- Add granulated sugar and MSG (optional) to adjust the saltiness.
- Stir-fry all ingredients until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4. Add Garnish and Serve
- Add sliced shallots, green and red chilies, and stir-fry again.
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Don't cut the chilies too finely, or it will be too spicy. Adjust to your preference.
- Cut the shallots thickly. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- For the lime, you can use small pieces or squeeze the juice. The peel adds fragrance and sourness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. What type of salted fish should I use?
For the best flavor, use a high-quality salted fish like Pla Ra (fermented fish). If you can't find Pla Ra, a good quality salted cod or mackerel can be substituted, but the flavor profile will differ.
2. Can I adjust the saltiness?
Yes! Taste the salted fish before adding it to the pan. If it's very salty, you might want to rinse it briefly under cold water or reduce the amount used. You can always add more fish sauce at the end for extra saltiness if needed.
3. What if I don't have fish sauce?
While fish sauce enhances the flavor, it's not strictly essential. You can omit it or substitute with a similar amount of soy sauce, though the flavor will be slightly altered. You may want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
This Fragrant Salted Fish & Egg Stir-fry is a testament to the magic of simple Thai cooking; a quick, flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. The combination of salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors will leave you wanting more. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!