Thai fish cakes are a delightful and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. With their unique blend of fish, herbs, and spices, these cakes are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. In this guide, we'll take you through the ultimate Thai fish cakes recipe, with step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time. 🍽️
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What You Need for Thai Fish Cakes
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need. Fresh fish is a must, and you can choose your favorite variety, such as salmon or white fish like cod or snapper. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Amount</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh fish fillet (cod, salmon, or snapper)</td> <td>500g (about 1 lb)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red curry paste</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Thai fish sauce</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh cilantro, chopped</td> <td>1/4 cup</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Green beans, finely chopped</td> <td>1/4 cup</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Eggs</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>All-purpose flour</td> <td>3 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Vegetable oil for frying</td> <td>As needed</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Lime wedges (for serving)</td> <td>As needed</td> </tr> </table>
Important note: "For the best results, make sure to use fresh fish fillets as they provide the best flavor and texture in the fish cakes."
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Preparing the Fish
- Clean the Fish: Start by rinsing your fish fillet under cold water. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Cut Into Pieces: Cut the fish into smaller chunks to make it easier to blend.
- Blend the Fish: Use a food processor to pulse the fish until it becomes a coarse paste. Be careful not to over-process, or it will turn mushy.
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Mixing Ingredients
- Combine in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish paste, red curry paste, fish sauce, chopped cilantro, and green beans.
- Add Egg and Flour: Crack the egg into the mixture and add the flour. Mix everything together until you have a consistent batter.
Important note: "Feel free to adjust the amount of red curry paste according to your spice preference."
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Shaping the Fish Cakes
- Form Patties: With your hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and shape it into a patty. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Prepare for Frying: Place the shaped patties on a plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them hold their shape when frying.
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Frying the Fish Cakes
- Heat Oil: In a large frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Patties: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fish cakes to the pan in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on Paper Towels: Remove the cooked patties from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Important note: "Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature."
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Serving Suggestions
Your Thai fish cakes are now ready to be served! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a sweet chili sauce or a tangy lime dipping sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra cilantro and thinly sliced green onions.
- Side Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad pairs well with the rich flavor of the fish cakes.
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Final Tips for Perfect Fish Cakes
- Storage: Uncooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen for later use.
- Cooking Options: For a healthier option, consider baking the fish cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge, so it's ready to fry when you're ready to eat.
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With this ultimate Thai fish cakes recipe, you can now create an authentic and delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thailand right in your kitchen! 🌶️🥢