
Shrimp Chili Paste
Nam Prik Goong Siab
A fiery, smoky shrimp dip packed with crispy, grilled dried shrimp.
Photos
What's in it
- Dried shrimp or shrimp paste
- Fresh chilies
- Garlic
- Lime juice
- Palm sugar
- Fish sauce
- Shallots
- Mild vegetables for serving
- Steamed rice
Best moments to enjoy it
Perfect for a long, relaxed meal when you have time to slowly pick at the raw veggies and scoop up the spicy dip. It’s an essential part of the Southern Thai experience.
Origin & history
Hailing from the coastal regions of the South, this dip was traditionally crafted by fishing communities to make the most of their dried shrimp harvest. It’s a legendary staple of Phuket and Krabi.
How to order & pay
If you aren't a fan of extreme heat, ask for "pet nit noi" (a little bit spicy). Always ask for a fresh vegetable platter on the side—it’s mandatory for the full effect.
Cash is king. Prices vary by restaurant, but it’s consistently great value for the complexity of flavor you get.
Allergens, nutrition & health
Allergens
Shrimp (crustacean), fermented fish sauce, chili.
Nutrition & benefits
High in protein and packed with bold, metabolism-boosting chili heat; usually served with a massive platter of fresh, raw, and boiled vegetables.
Health notes
Since this is served with a large platter of raw vegetables, choose reputable restaurants with high standards for washing their produce.
How to eat it
Take a piece of fresh vegetable (like cabbage or long beans), dip it generously into the paste, and make sure you get a crunchy piece of the grilled shrimp in every bite.

