Cashew Nam Prik

Nam prik is a chile-based dip discovered throughout Thailand. This model is a riff on nam prik ong, which is often present in northern Thailand and made with pork or beef. We swapped the meat for cashews; it provides the dip a healthyish twist in addition to a smoother, creamier texture.

Elements

Makes about 3 cups

1

cup uncooked cashews

6

Thai chiles or 4 Fresno chiles, chopped

2

medium shallots, chopped

1

lemongrass stalk, powerful outer layers eliminated, white and pale inexperienced components coarsely chopped

5

garlic cloves, coarsely chopped

Finely grated zest from 2 limes (about 3 tsp.)

1

tsp. kosher salt, plus extra

3

Tbsp. canola oil

1

Tbsp. tomato paste

8

oz. cherry tomatoes, halved

1

Tbsp. fish sauce

1

Tbsp. contemporary lime juice

1

Tbsp. coarsely chopped cilantro leaves with tender stems

Bibb or Little Gem lettuce leaves, sliced cucumbers, sliced mango, and soft-boiled eggs (for serving)

Preparation

Step 1

Pulse cashews in a meals processor till items aren’t any bigger than ¼". Transfers cashews to a medium bowl (it’s okay if among the cashews have gone all the way in which to powder, which can thicken the dip).

Step 2

Pulse chiles, shallots, lemongrass, garlic, lime zest, and 1 tsp. salt in meals processor till very finely chopped. Scrape down sides and proceed to pulse till a rough paste varieties. Switch curry paste to a small bowl.

Step 3

Warmth oil in a medium saucepan over medium. Add cashews and cook dinner, stirring usually, till golden brown in most spots, 4–6 minutes. Add curry paste and cook dinner, stirring usually, till barely darkened, about 3 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook dinner, stirring, till combination begins to stay to backside pot, about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and a splash of water and cook dinner, scraping any browned bits that will have caught to backside of pot, till tomatoes are fully damaged down and combination is thickened, 7–10 minutes.

Step 4

Take away from warmth and stir in fish sauce and lime juice. Style and alter seasoning with salt.

Step 5

Switch nam prik to a medium bowl. Prime with cilantro. Serve nam prik heat with lettuce, cucumbers, mango, and eggs alongside.