Authentic Thai Fish Cake Recipe (Tod Mun Pla)
- Praphasri Panphasom
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
Tod Mun Pla (Thai Fish Cake) is a classic appetizer that captures the heart of Thai street food. These deep-fried delights are famous for their signature "bouncy" texture, intense aromatic spices from red curry paste, and the refreshing zesty scent of kaffir lime leaves.
Whether you are craving the traditional fish-based version or looking for a delicious plant-based vegan alternative, this recipe will guide you through creating the perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Choose Your Base:
For Regular Version: 200 g White fish fillet (minced finely)
For Vegan/Vegetarian Version: 200 g Firm tofu or plant-based fish substitute (minced)
The Aromatic Paste:
1 tbsp Red curry paste
1 Egg (or 1 tbsp rice flour + 1 tbsp water for Vegan)
1 tsp Sugar
1 tsp Fish sauce (or light soy sauce for Vegan)
1 tbsp Chopped green beans
1 tbsp Finely sliced kaffir lime leaves
For the Cucumber Dip (Ajad):
Cucumber (diced), Shallot (sliced), Chili (sliced), Vinegar, Sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Paste: In a bowl, combine the minced fish (or plant-based base) with the red curry paste.
Knead for Texture: This is the secret step! Add the egg (or flour mixture), sugar, and fish sauce. Knead the mixture vigorously by hand for 3-5 minutes until the texture becomes sticky and "bouncy."
Add Herbs: Fold in the chopped green beans and finely sliced kaffir lime leaves. Mix until evenly distributed.
Shape: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Scoop a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a flat, round patty.
Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
Serve: Drain the excess oil and serve hot with the refreshing cucumber dip (Ajad) on the side.
Master Traditional Thai Snacks in Chiang Mai!
The "bouncy" texture of Tod Mun Pla is all about the kneading technique! Want to learn the secret tips behind Thailand's most famous appetizers?
Come join us at Cookventure Home Cooking Studio! We offer an immersive, hands-on [certified Thai cooking class] right here in beautiful Chiang Mai. If you are a digital nomad, you can also enroll in our certified [DTV Visa cooking program] to master Thai cuisine while securing your 5-year stay in Thailand!
