Craving the vibrant flavors of Thailand but short on time? This easy tomato chili paste recipe delivers authentic Thai taste without the lengthy prep. Forget complicated processes and expensive ingredients; this recipe uses readily available pantry staples to create a versatile condiment perfect for elevating your favorite dishes. Whether you're adding a fiery kick to your noodles, enhancing the depth of your curries, or simply enjoying it as a dipping sauce, this paste is incredibly adaptable. Its bright, tangy sweetness, balanced with a satisfying heat, will quickly become a kitchen staple.
This simple recipe requires minimal equipment and only a handful of fresh ingredients. Ready to transform your cooking with this delicious and versatile paste? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below and create some culinary magic!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Frying Pan
Ingredients
- Roselle
- Okra
- Vegetable (similar to squash)
- Young Pumpkin
- Chinese Garlic: 8-10 cloves
- Shallots: 6-8
- Cherry Tomatoes: 20 pieces or more
- Shrimp Paste: 1/2 spoon
- Turmeric Powder: 2 teaspoons or more
- Chili Powder: 1/2 tablespoon or to taste
- Salt
- MSG
- Seasoning Powder
- Tamarind Juice
- Dried Shrimp
- Chili (optional)
- Celery (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Boil roselle and okra until tender. You can also use other vegetables like the squash-like vegetable or young pumpkin.
- Chop Chinese garlic and shallots.
- Chop cherry tomatoes into small pieces or thin slices.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Tomatoes
- Fry shallots and garlic until fragrant.
- Add shrimp paste dissolved in water, turmeric powder, and tomatoes to the pan. Fry until fragrant.
- Add a little water to prevent burning. Cover and cook until tomatoes are soft.
Step 3. Season and Simmer
- Add chili powder, salt, MSG, seasoning powder, and tamarind juice to taste.
- Add optional ingredients like celery, dried shrimp, and chili.
- Mix well and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve with hot rice and your favorite vegetables.
Read more: Thai Beef Stew with Rice: A Melts-in-Your-Mouth Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of tomatoes and tamarind juice to control the sourness.
- Use high-quality shrimp paste for a better flavor.
- The amount of turmeric powder can be adjusted to your preferred color.
- You can use Thai shallots if you prefer.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chilies used. Start with fewer and add more to your preference.
2. How long will the paste last?
Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about a week.
3. What can I use this paste for?
This paste is incredibly versatile! Use it in stir-fries, curries, noodle dishes, as a dipping sauce, or even as a pizza topping.
This easy tomato chili paste recipe is a fantastic way to bring authentic Thai flavors into your kitchen without the fuss. Enjoy its vibrant taste in your favorite dishes, experimenting with different levels of spice and applications. Now get cooking and savor the delicious results!