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Thai Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla)

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 15 min
Total: 35 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Calories: 62/serving
pescatarian gluten-free dairy-free
Contains: fish eggs peanuts
Thai Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut the fish fillets into chunks and place in a food processor. Pulse until the fish forms a smooth paste, about 1-2 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add red curry paste, fish sauce, egg, palm sugar, and cornstarch to the food processor. Pulse until well combined.

  3. 3

    Transfer the fish mixture to a bowl and fold in the sliced green beans and shredded kaffir lime leaves.

  4. 4

    With wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties about 5cm (2 inches) in diameter and 1.5cm (1/2 inch) thick. You should get about 16-20 fish cakes.

  5. 5

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 180°C (350°F). Test with a small piece of mixture - it should sizzle immediately.

  6. 6

    Carefully lower fish cakes into the hot oil, working in batches of 4-5 to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

  7. 7

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  8. 8

    Serve hot with cucumber slices, sweet chili sauce, fresh cilantro, and crushed peanuts on the side.

Chef's Note

"These crispy-outside, tender-inside fish cakes are a Thai street food favorite that's surprisingly easy to master at home. Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce and cucumber for an authentic appetizer that always impresses guests."

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