Goong Tod Recipe (Deep Fried Prawns)
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This goong tod recipe makes the best deep-fried prawns, perfect for when you’re in the mood for a quick and easy appetizer, snack, or dinner with white rice. This Thai classic is easy-to-make, with tempura flour batter and breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.
Don’t miss out on these Thai shrimp appetizers: Thai shrimp rolls with peanut sauce, pork and shrimp wonton recipe, and shrimp in a blanket!
What is goong tod
Goong tod is a delicious Thai street food featuring prawns dipped in a tempura flour batter and then deep-fried until crunchy and golden. The batter is flavored with simple ingredients, infusing each prawn with extra flavor.
Deep-fried prawns with batter recipe
These crispy delights were the star of our former Thai restaurant. Selling out during weekends wasn’t a one time thing!
The secret? It’s all about the tempura flour batter, wrapping each prawn in a golden coat of crunchy goodness.
As soon as these prawns hit the oil, your kitchen will fill up with aromas you’d encounter at a Thai food market. Don’t be surprised if the kids show up for dinner early!
Each prawn is crispy on the outside and so juicy and tender on the inside, making you crave more with each bite.
More deep-fried appetizer? Check out this Thai fried bananas recipe, these crispy Thai corn fritters, and my irresistible fried chicken drumsticks!
5 Reasons to try this recipe
- These fried shrimps are restaurant quality. With this recipe, you can whip up a restaurant quality dish at home.
- It’s made with simple ingredients. If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you probably have most ingredients in your kitchen pantry.
- It’s so quick and easy. This recipe is perfect for a fast snack or a simple weeknight dinner without too much effort. Serve this at your next gathering, and you actually get to spend time with your guests!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser. This Thai food is a crowd-pleaser, combine it with one of my dipping sauces, and you’ve got the recipe for success!
- Everyone loves ’em. Serve these at your next family gathering and watch them vanish within the blink of an eye. This is the ultimate party food!
Ingredients
Ingredients can be sourced at Asian grocery stores and Asian markets.
The exact measurements are in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Prawns – Opt for medium-large sized ones for a meaty bite. You can use black tiger shrimp as well.
- RosDee flavor seasoning – This Thai seasoning is a blend of various spices and enhances the overall flavors.
- White pepper
- Salt
- Tempura flour – Tempura flour is key for a light yet crunchy texture.
- Ice-cold water – Using ice-cold water in batter recipes helps to prevent the development of gluten in the flour, resulting in a lightier, airier batter.
- Breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs add extra crunch. Optional but recommended.
Cooking instructions
Devein the prawns
Devein and clean the prawns.
Make the tempura batter
In a large mixing bowl, mix tempura flour, salt, white pepper, and flavor seasoning. Gradually add ice-cold water to make a batter.
Deep-fry the prawns
Heat oil in a wok or deep-frying pan. Dip a prawn into the batter, then into the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s well-coated. Fry the prawn in hot oil until it’s golden. Cooking time varies by prawn size. Make sure not to overcook, or prawns will shrink. Serve immediately with a dipping sauce.
Recipe tips and tricks
- Prep the prawns: Take your time to properly clean and devein the prawns. Keep the tail on for better presentation, it’s also handy for dipping.
- Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd your pan. Give each prawn enough space to get crisped to perfection. If you overcrowd your pan, the prawns tend to stick to each other.
- Test the oil: Drop a small bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to fry.
Kitchen tools
- Paper towels: After frying them, place the deep-fried prawns on paper towels for draining excess oil.
- Whisk: For mixing the batter without lumps.
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Deep-frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
How to serve
Garnish your plate with lime wedges and maybe a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like green onions for a pop of color and freshness. For a complete meal, pair with steamed jasmine rice.
Dipping sauce options
- Goong tod sauce priew wan: A Thai sweet chili sauce is the perfect dipping sauce for any fried appetizer.
- Thai tamarind dipping sauce: A sweet, tangy, and spicy accompaniment that’s so good with just about everything.
Topping options
Crispy fried garlic: With a nod to goong tod kratiem prik Thai, crispy fried garlic adds a delicious garlic flavor and an extra crunch.
How to store
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but I suggest eating your fried prawns in one go.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, tempura flour usually contains wheat. However, you can opt for a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour like rice flour and cornstarch. Also, double-check the RosDee seasoning for gluten-free.
Can I make this with other protein?
Yes! I often make fried chicken with a tempura batter and simple seasonings.
More Thai seafood recipes you’ll love
- Crispy garlic prawns with pepper
- Tom yum fried rice shrimp
- Goong ob woonsen – Thai glass noodles with prawns.
- Tom yum kung – Spicy soup with herbs, spices, and shrimp.
- Yum talay – Spicy Thai seafood salad recipe.
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Goong Tod Recipe (Deep Fried Prawns)
Ingredients
- 8 prawns
- a pinch of salt
- a pinch of white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon rosdee seasoning powder
- 6 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup tempura flour
Instructions
- Devein and clean the prawns.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix tempura flour, salt, white pepper, and flavor seasoning. Gradually add ice-cold water to make a batter.
- Heat oil in a wok or deep-frying pan. Dip a prawn into the batter, then into the breadcrumbs, making sure it's well-coated. Fry the prawn in hot oil until it's golden. Cooking time varies by prawn size. Make sure not to overcook, or prawns will shrink. Serve immediately with a dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use the nutrition card in this recipe as a guideline.
- Pair with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce.
- For a complete meal, pair with steamed rice.
