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.

Goong tod aka Thai deep-fried prawns with a chili dipping sauce.

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.

Thai deep-fried prawns (goong tod) with a chili dipping sauce.

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.

Thai tempura, deep-fried prawns in a bamboo dish and a hand lifting a fried prawn.

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

For the exact measurements, please scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post.

Top-down view of recipe ingredients on a bamboo background; prawns, breadcrumbs, water, salt, white pepper, flavor seasoning, and tempura flour.
  • 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

  1. Devein the prawns

    Top-down view of deveined prawns on a banana leaf in a bamboo dish.

    Devein and clean the prawns.

  2. Make the tempura batter

    Instructions for making 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.

  3. 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

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.
  • Spicy tamarind dip: A sweet, tangy, and spicy accompaniment that’s so good with just about everything.
  • Take a look at my array of Thai dipping sauces and make each crunchy prawn taste different.

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

If you loved reading this goong tod recipe for deep-fried prawns, please make my day by dropping a star rating and/or a comment below!

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 min Cook Time 15 min Total Time 35 mins
Servings: 2

Description

This goong tod recipe makes delicious deep-fried prawns with tempura flour batter.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Devein and clean the prawns.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, mix tempura flour, salt, white pepper, and flavor seasoning. Gradually add ice-cold water to make a batter.

  3. 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.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 4 prawns per person

Servings 2


Amount Per Serving
Calories 176kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 2.5g4%
Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
Total Carbohydrate 14.5g5%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g4%
Sugars 1.1g
Protein 22.5g45%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • 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.
Keywords: goong tod, goong tod recipe, deep fried prawns

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About Author

Praew

I owned my own Thai restaurant and have years of experience in various other Thai restaurants. I've been whipping up classic Thai dishes by my mother's and grandma's side since I was just a little girl. Now I'm sharing my deep-rooted passion with my authentic Thai recipes on this food blog.

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