Nam prik pao
ThaïlandeA Thai roasted chili condiment prized for its rich texture and complex combination of spicy, sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.
Description
Nam Prik Pao (น้ำพริกเผา), often known as Thai roasted chili paste or Thai chili jam, is an iconic condiment in Thai cuisine. It is traditionally made from roasted dried chilies, shallots, and garlic, with ingredients such as sugar, tamarind, fish sauce, or dried shrimp added depending on the recipe. Dark red to reddish-brown in color, Nam Prik Pao has a thick, oily, slightly jam-like consistency. Its flavor is particularly rich: the heat of the chilies is balanced by caramelized sweetness, gentle acidity, smoky notes, and a pronounced umami character. Widely used in Thai cooking, it is a signature ingredient in Tom Yum, but can also enhance soups, noodles, fried rice, vegetables, seafood, and meat dishes. It can also be served as a condiment or spread, adding depth, heat, and umami to a wide variety of dishes.
