Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) is a celebrated dish hailing from the northern regions of Thailand. This vibrant chili dip, packed with tomatoes and minced pork, tantalizes your taste buds with its perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. As a popular appetizer or accompaniment to rice, it brings a burst of freshness that is both comforting and exciting. If you’ve ever visited Thailand or dined at a Thai restaurant, you might have encountered this delightful dip, and now you can learn how to recreate it at home!
In this article, I’ll guide you through all the essential Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) ingredients, variations, and a step-by-step process on how to make Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) that’ll impress your family and friends. Get ready to dive into the rich flavors of this Thai classic!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Pork | 500 g | Ground pork provides a rich, meaty base for the dip that helps absorb all the spices and flavors. |
| Tomatoes | 4 large, ripe | Fresh tomatoes add a juicy sweetness and essential tartness to Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip). |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor, making the dip irresistible. |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp | Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor, giving the dip its vibrant color and consistency. |
| Chili Paste | 2 tbsp | Chili paste offers a kick of heat, essential to any good Thai chili dip. |
| Shallots | 2, finely chopped | Shallots provide a milder, sweeter onion flavor that complements the pork. |
| Fish Sauce | 2 tbsp | Fish sauce contributes umami and saltiness, deepening the overall flavor of the dip. |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tbsp | Oil is used for frying, ensuring all ingredients are well-cooked and blended. |
| Fresh Coriander | For garnish | Coriander adds a fresh, herbal note that lightens the dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Start by washing and chopping the fresh tomatoes, garlic, and shallots. This step ensures that your Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) is fresh and vibrant. Finely chop the coriander for garnishing at the end.
- Cook the Base – In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté until they become translucent. This will form a fragrant base for your dip, setting the stage for delicious flavors to meld together.
- Add the Pork – Increase the heat to high and add the ground pork. Stir-fry it until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. This step adds a lovely texture and body to your Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip).
- Incorporate Tomatoes – Once the pork is ready, add the chopped tomatoes and stir well. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften and meld with the pork and shallots. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes will balance the savory elements beautifully.
- Mix in the Flavorings – Add in the garlic, tomato paste, chili paste, and fish sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to develop. Cook for another 5 minutes, adjusting the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Check for Seasoning – Taste your dip and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it spicier, add extra chili paste! This is your chance to make the dip truly suit your palate.
- Serve and Garnish – Once everything is well combined and the colors are vibrant, remove from heat. Serve your Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) hot, garnished with fresh coriander. It pairs wonderfully with sticky rice, fresh vegetable sticks, or even crispy chips!
Pro Tips
- Adjust the Heat – If you’re not a fan of spicy food, start with a smaller amount of chili paste and gradually increase it as you taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – The quality of your tomatoes and pork will significantly influence the taste. Fresh produce always elevates the dish.
- Add Vegetables – Feel free to toss in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and nutrition.
- Experiment with Herbs – While coriander is traditional, fresh mint or Thai basil can also add a unique twist to your dip.
- Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip)?
Store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days.
Can Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the pork with textured vegetable protein or mushrooms, and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a vegan variant. Ensure your ingredients are gluten-free if needed.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip)?
Nam Prik Ong pairs perfectly with sticky rice, fresh vegetable sticks, or crispy spring rolls.
How long does it take to prepare Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip)?
The preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes.
Can I freeze Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) for later?
Yes, you can freeze the dip for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip)?
Consider adding finely chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick!
Is Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of chili paste used; you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.
Can I substitute some ingredients in Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip)?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken or beef instead of pork, and swap tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a different taste.
In summary, making Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) at home is not just simple but incredibly rewarding. The combination of fresh ingredients, vivid flavors, and the joy of sharing this Thai delight with loved ones makes it a must-try! I encourage you to get creative with the recipe and adapt it as you like. Give this Nam Prik Ong (Tomato And Pork Chili Dip) a go, and let us know your experience in the comments!
