Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsChao BaanTod Man Recipe

Tod Man Recipe

Inspired by Chao Baan
Time45m
Serves4

Red-curry-flavored minced fish patties. Served cucumbers, and red onion.

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Ingredients

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Tod Man Patties

Method

Tod Man Patties

  1. 1

    Prepare fish

    Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels, then cut into 2–3 cm chunks to make processing easier.

  2. 2

    Make fish paste

    Place fish chunks in a food processor. Add red curry paste, minced garlic, fish sauce, light brown sugar, egg, lime juice, and cornstarch. Pulse in short bursts until mixture becomes a smooth, slightly sticky paste (but avoid overheating). Scrape down bowl as needed.

  3. 3

    Fold aromatics

    Transfer the fish paste to a mixing bowl. Fold in finely chopped shallots, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, shredded kaffir lime leaves (if using), salt and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed. Taste a small pinch by steaming a spoonful briefly to adjust seasoning if needed (careful, it's hot).

  4. 4

    Portion patties

    Wet your hands to prevent sticking and form the mixture into 12 equal patties (about 40 g each) or 8 larger patties as preferred. Flatten slightly so they are about 1 cm thick for even cooking.

  5. 5

    Heat oil

    In a large skillet or shallow pan, heat neutral oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 170–180°C / 338–356°F). There should be enough oil to shallow-fry the patties.

  6. 6

    Fry patties

    Add patties in batches without overcrowding. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature ~70°C / 158°F) and a slight crust forms. Adjust heat to avoid burning. Transfer cooked patties to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep warm in a low oven (about 90°C / 200°F) if necessary.

Accompaniments & Garnish

  1. 7

    Quick-pickle cucumbers and red onion

    Combine rice vinegar, sugar and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl and stir until sugar dissolves. Add thin cucumber slices and the red onion. Let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours) to lightly pickle and crisp.

  2. 8

    Plate and garnish

    Arrange 3 patties per serving (or 2 larger patties) on a serving plate. Add a portion of quick-pickled cucumber and red onion alongside. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Serve immediately with Thai sweet chili sauce or nam jim seafood on the side for dipping.

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