Tua Tod Samun, or Thai savory bean fritters, are a beloved street food snack bursting with flavor and texture. These crispy delights offer a delightful contrast of crunchy exterior and soft, savory interior, perfectly complemented by a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, golden-brown fritter, its herbaceous scent mingling with the subtle sweetness of the beans – a taste of authentic Thai street food in every bite. The simple yet satisfying combination of ingredients makes this recipe surprisingly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique variation.
Beyond their deliciousness, Tua Tod Samun are surprisingly easy to make. This recipe provides a straightforward, step-by-step guide to crafting these addictive fritters from scratch, perfect for both seasoned cooks and enthusiastic beginners. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand's bustling street food scene? Let's dive into the detailed instructions and create these irresistible treats together.
Tools Needed
- mandolin (optional)
- coffee grinder
- large skillet or wok
- paper towels
- brownie pan
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Thinly slice large garlic cloves using a mandolin or knife. Spread them out to dry.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the leaves. Tear off the center stems and tear each leaf half into two.
- Thinly slice lemongrass on a diagonal.
- Combine salt, sugar, lime juice powder, chili powder (optional), and chicken bouillon powder (optional) in a coffee grinder and blitz until fine.
Step 2. Deep Fry Aromatics and Nuts
- Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic slices and fry on low heat until crispy and golden, avoiding browning. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Add lime leaves to the oil and fry until crispy. Remove. Add lemongrass and fry briefly to infuse flavor into the oil; discard lemongrass.
- Add dried chilies and fry until slightly darker in color and crispy.
- Increase heat to medium-high (350°F). Add peanuts and stir constantly until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with cashews (shorter cooking time).
Step 3. Season and Combine
- While nuts are still hot, sprinkle with the seasoning blend, toss to coat. Add fried herbs and toss again.
Step 4. Cool and Serve
- Let the peanuts cool completely to achieve optimal crunchiness.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Dry garlic and lime leaves completely to prevent oil splattering.
- Fry garlic on low heat to achieve crispiness before browning. Watch for the bubbles to subside, indicating moisture evaporation.
- Fry nuts in batches to ensure even cooking. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Use a brownie pan to cool nuts quickly.
- Adjust herb and chili quantities to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of peanuts?
Yes! While salted peanuts work best, you can experiment with unsalted peanuts, roasted peanuts, or even other nuts like cashews, but the flavor profile might change slightly.
2. How long do the chili lime peanuts keep?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
These crispy chili lime peanuts are the perfect snack for any occasion, offering a vibrant burst of flavor that's both addictive and satisfying. From casual gatherings to movie nights, their irresistible crunch and zesty spice will be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, try this recipe and experience the authentic taste of Thailand in every delicious bite!