In the colorful world of Thai cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of traditional flavors as beautifully as Tod Mun Pla — the famous Thai fish cakes. Bursting with spice, herbs, and a touch of sweetness, this dish represents the true balance of Thai cooking. At Shalimar Phuket, our chefs prepare this authentic delicacy with care, ensuring every bite reflects Thailand’s vibrant culinary heritage while maintaining the high-quality, halal-friendly standards our guests love.
What Is Tod Mun Pla?
Tod Mun Pla is a beloved Thai appetizer made from minced fish combined with aromatic herbs, red curry paste, and crisp vegetables like long beans or kaffir lime leaves. In Thai, “tod” means fried, “mun” means cake or patty, and “pla” means fish — so it literally translates to “fried fish cakes.”
These fish cakes are soft inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and infused with layers of flavor — spicy, fragrant, and full of umami. Traditionally served with a refreshing cucumber relish, Tod Mun Pla offers a perfect balance between heat and sweetness, making it a popular starter at Thai restaurants across the world.
Ingredients That Are Used In This Dish
The secret to an excellent Tod Mun Pla recipe lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the precision of the spice mix. Here’s what goes into creating the perfect batch:
- Fresh white fish fillet (commonly snapper or cod, finely minced)
- Red curry paste for that signature Thai spice
- Finely sliced kaffir lime leaves for a citrusy fragrance
- Thinly sliced long beans for a bit of crunch
- Fish sauce (or halal alternative) to enhance umami flavor
- Sugar to balance the spice
- Egg to bind the mixture
- Oil for deep frying
At Shalimar, we prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients to ensure every batch of Tod Mun Pla tastes authentic and full of life.
How to Make Tod Mun
Crafting the perfect Tod Mun Pla recipe requires a delicate blend of technique and timing. Here’s how our chefs bring this Thai classic to life:
- Prepare the Fish Mixture
The fish fillets are finely minced until smooth. Red curry paste, sugar, and a halal-friendly fish sauce are added and mixed thoroughly until the texture becomes sticky — this step ensures the cakes hold their shape during frying. - Add Herbs and Vegetables
Kaffir lime leaves and thinly sliced long beans are folded into the mixture, infusing the cakes with freshness and texture. - Shape the Cakes
The mixture is divided into small, flat patties — traditionally hand-shaped for a rustic feel. - Fry Until Golden
The patties are fried in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. The key is not to overcook them; they should remain tender inside while crisp outside.
Variations You Should Try
While the classic Tod Mun Pla remains the most popular version, there are a few regional variations worth noting:
- Tod Mun Goong – Made with minced shrimp instead of fish for a sweeter taste.
- Tod Mun Pla Krai – Uses snakehead fish, giving it a chewier texture.
- Vegetarian Tod Mun – Made with tofu and curry paste for those who prefer a plant-based option.
At Shalimar Phuket, our chefs are happy to customize your experience, ensuring every version remains true to its Thai roots while maintaining balance and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Dish
If you’re planning to recreate Tod Mun Pla in your kitchen, here are a few tips from our chefs:
- Use fresh fish — avoid frozen fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Mix the fish paste thoroughly until it becomes slightly elastic; this ensures the cakes are light and springy.
- Don’t skip kaffir lime leaves — they are key to the authentic aroma.
- Fry on medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook evenly.
- Always serve with a dipping sauce or relish — it balances the heat beautifully.
A Signature Dish at Shalimar Phuket
At Shalimar Phuket, we take pride in preparing authentic Thai dishes that celebrate the spirit of traditional cooking while maintaining the purity of halal dining. Our Tod Mun Pla is one of the most requested appetizers — light, flavorful, and made with passion.
Paired with a refreshing drink or served alongside a main course, it’s the perfect introduction to Thai cuisine for those seeking authentic flavors in the heart of Phuket.