Kai Look Koey
Thai Son-in-Law Eggs
Kai Look Koey, literally translating to 'eggs looking at the son-in-law', are a classic Thai dish featuring perfectly fried hard-boiled eggs coated in a sweet, sour, and savory tamarind sauce. The eggs are deep-fried until their whites blister and puff up, creating a delightful texture contrast with the rich sauce. This dish is a perfect appetizer or side, offering a complex flavor profile that is both addictive and intriguing.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 Large eggs
- 2 tbsp Tamarind paste
- 3 tbsp Palm sugar
- 2 tbsp Fish sauce
- 2 tbsp Water
- 3-4 cups Vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup Fried shallots
- 1-2 Fresh red chilies
- a few Fresh cilantro sprigs
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the frying oil: Pour vegetable oil into a wok or deep, heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of at least 3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). A single drop of water should sizzle immediately, or a piece of shallot should turn golden brown within 30 seconds.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Fry the eggs: Carefully lower the peeled hard-boiled eggs into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot (fry in batches if necessary). Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the egg whites are golden brown and blistered all over. This process gives the eggs their characteristic texture. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Make the tamarind sauce: While the eggs are frying or draining, combine the tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, and 2 tablespoons of water in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Simmer the sauce: Stir the sauce mixture constantly until the palm sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce begins to thicken slightly, coating the back of a spoon. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – it should be a balance of sweet, sour, and salty. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become too thick.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Assemble the dish: Slice the fried eggs in half lengthwise. Arrange the egg halves on a serving platter, cut-side up. Drizzle the warm tamarind sauce generously over the eggs.
⏱️ 1 minute - 6
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the fried shallots evenly over the sauced eggs. Garnish with sliced red chilies (if using) and fresh cilantro sprigs. Serve immediately while the eggs are still warm.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the eggs; this is crucial for achieving the blistered texture.
- ✓The sauce should have a balanced sweet, sour, and salty flavor profile. Adjust the palm sugar, tamarind, and fish sauce to your preference.
- ✓Don't overcook the sauce, as it will thicken further as it cools.
- ✓For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
- Some variations include adding crispy fried pork belly or minced pork to the sauce for a richer dish.
- A squeeze of lime juice can be added to the sauce at the end for extra brightness.