Gaeng Tai Pla
Southern Thai Fish Organ Curry
A fiercely flavorful and pungent curry from Southern Thailand, featuring fermented fish intestines as its signature ingredient. This dish is a true taste of the region, known for its intense aroma and complex, savory profile. It's a dish that is deeply loved by those who appreciate its unique character.
🧂 Ingredients
- 100 g Fermented fish intestines (tai pla)(These are crucial for the authentic flavor. Look for them at specialty Asian markets. They will have a strong, pungent aroma.)
- 300 g Firm white fish fillets(Such as sea bass, snapper, or cod. Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
- 1 cup Young bamboo shoots(Canned or fresh, sliced. If using canned, rinse them thoroughly.)
- 1 cup Long beans(Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces.)
- 4 tbsp Southern Thai curry paste (kua kling paste or similar)(This paste is typically spicier and more complex than standard red or green curry pastes. Adjust to your spice preference.)
- 1 cup Thai eggplant(Quartered or cut into bite-sized pieces. If unavailable, regular eggplant can be substituted, but the texture will differ.)
- 3 cups Water
- 3-4 leaves Kaffir lime leaves(Torn to release aroma.)
- 1-2 tbsp Fish sauce(To taste, for seasoning.)
- 2-3 Fresh chili peppers(Optional, sliced for extra heat and garnish.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fermented fish: Place the fermented fish intestines in a small bowl and cover with about 1/2 cup of the water. Gently mash them with a spoon or your fingers to break them down and release their flavor into the water. Let this sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. This step helps to mellow the intensity slightly and distribute the flavor.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Start the curry base: In a medium pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2.5 cups of water over medium-high heat until it reaches a gentle simmer (around 85°C / 185°F). Add the Southern Thai curry paste and stir well to dissolve it into the water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the curry paste to bloom and release its fragrant oils. You should smell a significant aroma developing.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Add the fermented fish mixture and aromatics: Pour the prepared fermented fish and its soaking water into the simmering curry base. Add the torn kaffir lime leaves. Stir everything together and bring back to a gentle simmer.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Cook the vegetables: Add the bamboo shoots, long beans, and Thai eggplant to the pot. Stir to combine. Increase the heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer (around 90°C / 194°F). Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. They should be cooked through but still retain a slight bite.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
Add the fish and finish: Gently add the fish pieces to the curry. Stir carefully to avoid breaking them up. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Do not overcook the fish. Taste the curry and season with fish sauce as needed. The fermented fish will add saltiness, so season cautiously.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 6
Serve: Ladle the Gaeng Tai Pla into bowls. Garnish with fresh sliced chili peppers if desired. This curry is traditionally served with steamed jasmine rice, and often accompanied by fresh vegetables like cucumber or cabbage on the side to help balance the intense flavors.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Gaeng Tai Pla is known for its very strong, pungent aroma and taste. It's an acquired taste, but highly prized by those who love it.
- ✓This is a classic Southern Thai specialty, representing the bold flavors of the region.
- ✓For a less intense version, you can reduce the amount of fermented fish intestines or rinse them more thoroughly before use.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like pineapple chunks or yardlong beans.
- Incorporate shrimp or squid along with or instead of fish.
- Adjust the amount of curry paste and chili to control the spice level.