Thai Raw Shrimp Salad Recipe (Goong Chae Nam Pla) | Authentic Thai Appetizer
Thai Raw Shrimp Salad, known as Goong Chae Nam Pla (กุ้งแช่น้ำปลา), is a popular Thai appetizer and drinking dish. Fresh shrimp are marinated in a spicy, tangy, and garlicky sauce, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish loved in Thai street food and restaurants alike.
This recipe highlights fresh shrimp and perfectly balanced dressing, making it easy to recreate authentic Thai flavors at home.
🛒 Ingredients (2–3 servings)
Main Ingredients
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8–10 fresh large shrimp (peeled, tail intact)
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3 garlic cloves
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2–3 red chilies (adjust to taste)
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2 limes (juice)
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3 tbsp fish sauce
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1 tsp sugar (or palm sugar)
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Fresh coriander for garnish
Optional Ingredients
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Mint leaves
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Thinly sliced red onion
🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
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Use fresh shrimp, peel and clean, leaving the tail intact.
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Optional: soak in ice water for 5 minutes for firmer texture.
Step 2: Make the Thai Spicy Dressing
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Finely chop or crush garlic and red chilies.
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Mix garlic-chili paste with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Adjust for your preferred balance of sour, salty, and sweet.
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
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Toss the shrimp in the dressing until evenly coated.
Step 4: Plate and Garnish
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Arrange the shrimp on a plate and drizzle with remaining dressing.
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Garnish with coriander, mint leaves, or red onion slices.
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Serve with lime wedges on the side.
💡 Tips for Perfect Goong Chae Nam Pla
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Fresh shrimp is key: Use live or freshly caught shrimp for the best flavor.
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Adjust the dressing: Modify fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar ratios to taste.
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Marinating time: Only 5–10 minutes to keep shrimp tender.
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Serving suggestion: Chill shrimp on ice for a refreshing summer appetizer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Fresh shrimp is recommended, but frozen shrimp can be used if fully thawed and drained.
Q2: Is this dish spicy?
A: The heat level depends on the number of chilies. You can adjust to taste or add chili powder.
Q3: Can this be served as a main dish?
A: Typically served as an appetizer or side dish, but it can also be enjoyed with rice or noodles.
Q4: How can I enhance the flavor?
A: Garnish with coriander, mint leaves, red onion, or lightly fried garlic for extra aroma.
🏆 Why You’ll Love This Thai Raw Shrimp Salad
✔ Fresh, tender, and refreshing
✔ Quick and easy to make
✔ Perfect appetizer or summer dish
✔ Authentic Thai street food flavor at home
