Dinner DishFried DishLocal Specialty

    Turmeric Fried Fish

    Pla Tod Kamin

    4.6฿80 – ฿150Best served as the main event at a bustling evening restaurant. It’s the ultimate companion to a cold beer after a long day of island hopping or trekking through the jungle.
    Fadli Octora Channel
    Overview

    Crispy, golden-fried fish marinated in earthy, fragrant turmeric.

    This is Southern Thai comfort food at its peak. A whole fish is rubbed with pulverized turmeric and garlic, then deep-fried until the skin shatters like glass. It’s an aromatic, crunchy masterpiece that remains succulent inside.
    Gallery

    Photos

    What's in it

    • Fresh fish
    • Turmeric powder or fresh turmeric
    • Garlic
    • Coriander root
    • Black pepper
    • Salt
    • Fish sauce
    • Cooking oil
    When to eat

    Best moments to enjoy it

    LunchDinner

    Best served as the main event at a bustling evening restaurant. It’s the ultimate companion to a cold beer after a long day of island hopping or trekking through the jungle.

    The story

    Origin & history

    Turmeric is the heart of Southern Thai cooking. This dish is a centuries-old tradition, using the region's abundant golden root to preserve and elevate fresh fish into a fragrant, crispy delight.

    At the stall

    How to order & pay

    Ordering

    Ask for extra "kratiem jiaw" (fried garlic) on top. It’s the golden, crispy highlight of the entire plate.

    Paying

    Cash is king at local family-run eateries. This dish is usually priced by weight or fish size; expect to pay around ฿100–120 for a standard portion.

    Good to know

    Allergens, nutrition & health

    Allergens

    Fish, soy (sometimes in the marinade), and garlic.

    Nutrition & benefits

    High-quality lean protein paired with the powerful anti-inflammatory health benefits of fresh, raw turmeric root.

    Health notes

    Because the fish is deep-fried at high temperatures, it’s one of the safest meals to eat. Just ensure the meat is piping hot when it hits your table.

    How to eat it

    Forget the cutlery. Use your hands to pick the meat away from the bones and scoop up those crunchy turmeric-garlic bits. Eat it with a massive mound of steaming jasmine rice.