What is Nam Prik Pao?

Nam Prik Pao is Thailand's roasted chili paste - deep red and smoky-sweet rather than fiercely hot, made from dried chilies, shallots and garlic fried in oil, then pounded with palm sugar and tamarind.

How is Thai roasted chili paste used in cooking?

A spoonful adds colour and smoky depth: we stir it into Tom Yum, melt it through a quick stir-fry, or spread it straight onto warm rice. It keeps for months in the can, which is why it stays on the market shopping list.

Can I cook with it in a Chiang Mai cooking class?

Yes - we use it in our hands-on classes. Explore them on our Cooking Classes page.

Thai Chili Paste - Nam Prik Pao | Thai Akha Kitchen

Nam Prik Pao is Thailand's roasted chili paste - deep red, glossy, and more smoky-sweet than fiercely hot. We buy it at the market in the familiar aluminium c

Thai Chili Paste - Nam Prik Pao | Thai Akha Kitchen Nam Prik Pao is Thailand's roasted chili paste - deep red, glossy, and more smoky-sweet than fiercely hot. We buy it at the market in the familiar aluminium c