North Thai Tomato & Meat Sauce (Nam Prik On)

This North Thai classic, known as Nam Prik On, is a comforting and savory tomato-based relish that pairs beautifully with sticky rice. Unlike spicy chili pastes, this dish focuses on umami depth from pork tenderloin, dried shrimp, and shrimp paste, balanced by the sweetness of ripe plum tomatoes. The addition of fresh lemongrass, garlic, and shallots creates a complex aromatic profile that is both earthy and bright. Its a hearty, protein-rich side dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening. Perfect for sharing, this sauce captures the rustic home-cooking style of Northern Thailand, offering a delicious alternative to standard curries or stir-fries.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing, Stir Frying

Cuisine: Thai

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 70.0

Dietary: Gluten-free

Description

This North Thai classic, known as Nam Prik On, is a comforting and savory tomato-based relish that pairs beautifully with sticky rice. Unlike spicy chili pastes, this dish focuses on umami depth from pork tenderloin, dried shrimp, and shrimp paste, balanced by the sweetness of ripe plum tomatoes. The addition of fresh lemongrass, garlic, and shallots creates a complex aromatic profile that is both earthy and bright. Its a hearty, protein-rich side dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening. Perfect for sharing, this sauce captures the rustic home-cooking style of Northern Thailand, offering a delicious alternative to standard curries or stir-fries.

Ingredients

1/4 pound Pork tenderloin
2 teaspoon Vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Minced garlic (3 cloves)
1 lg Shallot, minced
2 Serrano Chilies, with seeds
1 teaspoon Tiny dried shrimp, minced
1 teaspoon Shrimp paste
1 teaspoon Minced fresh lemongrass
1 lb Ripe plum tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup Defatted chicken stock or water
1 tablespoon Fish sauce
1 teaspoon Sugar

Directions

1
Trim the pork tenderloin of any fat and membrane, then chop into chunks.
2
Process the pork chunks in a food processor using an on/off motion until finely ground, or mince finely with a sharp knife.
3
In a heavy medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4
Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
5
Add minced shallots, chilies, dried shrimp, shrimp paste, and lemongrass; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6
Add the ground pork and stir-fry for about 1 minute until the meat is browned and cooked through.
7
Stir in chopped tomatoes, chicken stock (or water), fish sauce, and sugar.
8
Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, stirring frequently for 2 minutes.
9
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
10
Serve warm with sticky rice.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 70.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3.4g6%
Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
Cholesterol 21.0mg8%
Sodium 16.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 1.2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 7.6g16%

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

Keywords: nam prik on, north thai, tomato sauce, pork tenderloin, lemongrass, shrimp paste, dried shrimp, thai relish, sticky rice, umami, savory, herbs, simmered, plum tomatoes, garlic, shallots, chilies, thai cuisine, comfort food

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/north-thai-tomato-meat-sauce-nam-prik-on/