Tod Mun: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Authentic Thai Fish Cakes

Tod Mun, or Thai fish cakes, are a popular street food in Thailand. These savoury snacks make an excellent appetiser at home. The recipe is simple and uses basic ingredients like fish, green beans, and curry paste. This version focuses on fish, but variations with shrimp are also common.

• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sugar
• ½ teaspoon (7.5 ml) salt
• 120 grams (about ¼ lb) green beans
• 360 grams (about ¾ lb) ground fish or fish paste (pla kuud)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) red curry paste
• 1 egg
• 3 Kaffir lime leaves

• Frying pan
• Bowl
• Knife for slicing and mincing
• Paper towel for draining excess oil

Procedure

1. Stack the Kaffir lime leaves and roll them into a tube shape. Slice them into thin strips.
2. Slice the green beans into small pieces, about ½ inch each.
3. Mince the fish if not using pre-ground fish paste.
4. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except the green beans and lime leaves until smooth.
5. Add the green beans and lime leaves to the mixture and stir again.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
7. Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly. Cook until the bottom is done, then flip over.
8. Once cooked on both sides, place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining mixture.

Nutritional Values

If fresh Kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, it's best to omit them rather than use dried ones. You can also substitute chicken for fish if preferred. These variations allow you to enjoy Tod Mun with different flavours while maintaining its authentic taste.