The Simplest Best Hot Sauce & Prik Nam Som
Recipe Overview
Overview
Prik Nam Som is a quintessential Thai condiment that embodies the balance of flavors in Thai cuisine. With just two ingredients—chilies and vinegar—this hot sauce is deceptively simple yet incredibly versatile. The beauty of Prik Nam Som lies in its ability to elevate dishes that are sweet, salty, or rich, making it a staple on Thai dining tables.
The preparation is straightforward: pound your choice of chilies into a paste, mix in vinegar, and you have a sauce that can transform any meal. For those who prefer a milder heat, removing the seeds from the chilies or using a milder variety can help achieve the desired spice level without sacrificing flavor. Charred chilies can also introduce a delightful smokiness, adding depth to the sauce.
Prik Nam Som shines when paired with noodle dishes like Pad See Ew or rich stews, providing a bright acidity that cuts through the heaviness. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer that brings balance to every bite. Whether you’re drizzling it over fried rice or using it as a dipping sauce, this hot sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand in your own home!
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Gather red Thai chilies and white vinegar.
Pound the chilies into a paste using a mortar and pestle.
Pour in some vinegar and swirl to wash the mortar.
If making a lot, blend all ingredients together.
Tip: To make the sauce less spicy, add more vinegar to dilute the chilies.
Tip: Remove the seeds and pith from the chilies to keep the flavor and color while making it milder.
Char the chilies in a dry pot or pan until the skin is charred.
Pound the charred chilies into a paste.
Add vinegar to the charred chili paste.
Tip: You can add garlic to the sauce, either raw or charred, for additional flavor.
Slice milder chilies into large chunks.
Tip: Char the chilies in a dry pot or pan on high heat for a smoky flavor.
Pour white vinegar over the sliced chilies.
Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to pickle.
Tip: Use milder chilies for a less spicy version, such as jalapeños.
Tip: White vinegar is the most neutral flavored vinegar to use for balancing existing flavors.
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Prik Nam Som is a Thai condiment made from chilies and vinegar, often used to enhance the flavor of rich dishes.
- •The sauce can be adjusted for spice by removing seeds from the chilies or adding more vinegar.
- •Charred chilies can add a smoky flavor to the sauce, enhancing its complexity.
- •Prik Nam Som is commonly used with noodle dishes, fried rice, and other savory meals to balance flavors.
