Are you ready to dive into the world of delicious Thai cuisine? Today, we’re going to explore the mouthwatering recipe for Tod Man Goong, which are scrumptious Shrimp Cakes. This delightful dish hails from Thailand, where it is loved for its crispy texture and rich flavors. Tod Man Goong isn’t just a tasty treat; it has deep cultural roots and is often enjoyed as a street food snack or appetizer in many Asian countries.
People adore this recipe because it combines fresh shrimp with aromatic herbs, making it a perfect choice for both seafood lovers and those new to Thai flavors. Plus, the crunchy outside paired with the tender shrimp inside makes every bite a joyful experience. So let’s get started and learn how to prepare these amazing shrimp cakes!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound (450 grams) |
| Red curry paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Green beans, finely chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Thai basil, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Fish sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Enough for frying |
Note: If you’re allergic to shrimp, you can use crab meat or tofu as a substitute. You can also adjust the amount of red curry paste to make it milder or spicier depending on your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Tod Man Goong at home:
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a food processor, combine the raw shrimp and pulse until coarsely chopped. You want small pieces, but not a paste.
- Add the Ingredients: Transfer the chopped shrimp to a bowl. Then mix in red curry paste, finely chopped green beans, chopped Thai basil, fish sauce, and the egg. Stir well.
- Incorporate the Rice Flour: Gradually add the rice flour to the mixture. This will help bind everything together. The mixture should be thick enough to form into patties.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. You want about 1 inch of oil.
- Form the Cakes: Using your hands, shape the shrimp mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide.
- Fry the Patties: Carefully place the patties in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the shrimp cakes to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fats | 8g | 12% |
| Sodium | 450mg | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
– For a healthier option, consider baking the patties instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– If you want extra crunch, try adding some panko breadcrumbs to the mixture.
– Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy cakes.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan as it can lower the oil temperature, making it hard to get a crispy texture.
FAQs
What can I serve with Tod Man Goong?
You can serve Tod Man Goong with sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
Can I freeze the shrimp cakes?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked patties. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Are Tod Man Goong gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour instead of regular rice flour, this recipe can be suitable for those avoiding gluten.
How do I know when the shrimp cakes are cooked?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before using in the recipe.
What is the best type of shrimp to use?
Fresh or frozen large shrimp work best for this recipe, as they provide the best flavor and texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with mashed tofu or cooked and chopped vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
How spicy are Tod Man Goong?
The spice level can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of red curry paste you use.
How long do leftover shrimp cakes last?
Leftover shrimp cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven for the best results.
Now that you know how to make Tod Man Goong, grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this delightful Thai specialty. Happy cooking!
