11 recipes that use Thai chilis
Thai chilis are small but pack a powerful punch, known for their intense heat and distinctive flavor. They are a key ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes, adding a fiery kick that enhances the overall taste.
Whether you’re a spice lover or simply want to experiment with new flavors, here are 11 recipes that incorporate Thai chilis, offering a range of options from mild heat to mouth-searing spice.
1. Red Thai curry paste
Thai red curry paste is a versatile ingredient that forms the base of many Thai dishes. This recipe for red Thai curry paste is vegan-friendly and allows you to control the spice level by adjusting the amount of Thai red chilis you use. The paste combines ingredients like garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and Thai chilis to create a rich, aromatic blend that can be used in curries, soups, or marinades. Making your own curry paste ensures that it’s free from additives and can be tailored to your taste preferences.
2. Vegetarian Thai basil fried rice
This quick and simple vegetarian dish is perfect for a weeknight meal. Thai basil fried rice uses Thai chilis to create a spicy paste with garlic and shallots, which is then stir-fried with rice, vegetables, and Thai basil. The chilis add a depth of flavor that complements the fresh taste of the basil and the savory notes of the soy sauce. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with your choice of vegetables or protein.
3. Gà Xào Xả Ớt (Vietnamese spicy lemongrass chicken)
Gà Xào Xả Ớt is a classic Vietnamese dish that pairs the aromatic flavor of lemongrass with the heat of Thai chilis. This stir-fried chicken dish is both quick and flavorful, with the Thai chilis adding just the right amount of spice to balance the citrusy lemongrass.
The recipe is straightforward, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and is typically served with steamed rice. It’s a great introduction to Vietnamese cuisine and a perfect dish for those who enjoy bold flavors.
4. Thai green chili sauce
Nam Jim Talay is a popular Thai dipping sauce known for its vibrant flavor and versatility. Made with fresh Thai green chilis, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar, this sauce balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. It’s commonly served with seafood but can also be used as a marinade or a dressing for salads. The fresh Thai chilis in the sauce provide a sharp heat that elevates the dish, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys spicy food.
5. Mayak avocado
Mayak avocado is a Korean-inspired dish that combines ripe avocado with a tangy soy sauce marinade. While it’s not a traditional Thai dish, adding Thai chilis to the marinade gives it an extra kick that pairs well with the creamy texture of the avocado. This no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and makes a refreshing side dish or light meal, perfect for hot summer days. It’s a simple way to incorporate Thai chilis into your cooking without overwhelming the dish with spice.
6. Thai-style peanut sauce
I love Thai peanut sauce so much I could eat it straight from a bowl like soup. Thai peanut sauce is a rich, creamy sauce that’s incredibly versatile. Made with peanut butter, coconut milk, and Thai chilis, this sauce can be used as a dip for vegetables, a marinade for tofu, or a dressing for noodle dishes. The Thai chilis add a layer of heat that complements the sweetness of the coconut milk and the nuttiness of the peanut butter. It’s a sauce that can be easily customized to your taste, whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy.
7. Banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes)
Banh Xeo, also known as Vietnamese sizzling crepes, are crispy, turmeric-infused pancakes filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The crepes are served with fresh herbs and a spicy dipping sauce made with Thai chilis. The chilis in the dipping sauce add a fiery contrast to the savory filling and the crispness of the crepe. This dish is interactive and fun to eat, as you can wrap pieces of the crepe in lettuce leaves or rice paper before dipping them in the sauce.
8. Vietnamese fish sauce chicken wings (Cánh Gà Chiên Nước Mắm)
These chicken wings are a Vietnamese twist on a classic dish. The wings are marinated in a savory fish sauce blend and then air-fried to achieve a crispy texture. The glaze, made with fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and Thai chilis, adds a sweet and spicy finish to the wings. This dish is a great appetizer or snack and is perfect for gatherings. The use of Thai chilis in the glaze brings a level of heat that balances the sweetness of the sugar and the saltiness of the fish sauce.
9. Spicy enoki mushrooms
Enoki mushrooms are known for their delicate texture and ability to absorb flavors. In this recipe, the mushrooms are cooked in a spicy garlic sauce made with Thai chilis, soy sauce, and garlic. The Thai chilis add a sharp heat that contrasts with the mild flavor of the mushrooms. This dish is quick to prepare and can be served as a side dish or added to a hotpot for extra flavor. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy enoki mushrooms and Thai chilis together.
10. Glass noodle salad
This glass noodle salad is a refreshing and light dish that combines glass noodles with fresh vegetables and a tangy Nuoc Cham sauce. The sauce, made with fish sauce, lime juice, and Thai chilis, adds a bold flavor that complements the crisp vegetables and tender noodles. This salad is a healthy option that’s packed with fiber and can be made in under 30 minutes. You can also add protein like baked tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
11. Thai basil tofu
Tofu Pad Krapow is a flavorful stir-fry that combines ground tofu with Thai basil, green beans, and red bell peppers. Thai chilis are used to add heat to the dish, which is balanced by the herbal notes of the Thai basil. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s traditionally served over rice and can be topped with a crispy fried egg for added richness. The use of Thai chilis in this dish provides a customizable level of spice, allowing you to adjust it to your liking.
Most common questions about using Thai chilis
Thai chili peppers typically range from 50,000-100,000 SHU, making them a pretty hot pepper.
If you are a daring heat lover, you can eat Thai chili peppers raw! However, they have little flavor other than pure heat.
Most supermarkets carry fresh Thai chili peppers in the produce section. If you can’t find them, you might try a specialty Asian grocer.
If you can’t find Thai chilis, use cayenne or serrano peppers instead.
