Easy Tamarind Shrimp Recipe

Tamarind Shrimp (Tom Kho Me) is a beloved dish often found on Vietnamese family dinner tables. Featuring the signature sweet and sour tang of tamarind paired with succulent, firm shrimp, this dish is as delicious as it is easy to make. Discover how to cook simple, authentic Tamarind Shrimp with our guide below.

Ingredients for Tamarind Shrimp

To make Tamarind Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g fresh shrimp (or tiger prawns for larger size)
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste/concentrate
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground pepper
• 1 tsp seasoning powder
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Green onions, chopped
• Cooking oil and sesame oil

Ingredients for Tamarind Shrimp including fresh shrimp, tamarind paste, sauces, and aromatics

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Ingredients

• Clean the shrimp, trim the antennae and legs, and devein them.
• Mince the shallot and garlic. Chop the green onions.

Step 2: Mix the Tamarind Sauce

• In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp tamarind paste, 2 tbsp sugar, 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1/2 tsp ground pepper, 1 tsp seasoning powder, and a dash of sesame oil.
• Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Mixing the sweet and sour tamarind sauce in a white bowl

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

• Heat a little cooking oil in a pan or wok. Add the shrimp and sear briefly until they turn pink/red.
• Remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

• Leave a little oil in the pan and sauté the minced shallot and garlic until fragrant.
• Pour in the tamarind sauce mixture and stir well.
• Return the seared shrimp to the pan. Stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
• Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped green onions just before serving.

Cooked tamarind shrimp simmering in sauce in a pan with green onions

How to Serve Tamarind Shrimp

Tamarind Shrimp is best served hot with steamed white rice. The harmonious sweet and sour flavor, combined with the firm shrimp infused with spices, makes it incredibly appetizing and pairs perfectly with rice. You can garnish with extra chopped green onions or fresh chili slices for added color and heat.

Plated Tamarind Shrimp served with white rice and chopsticks

Tips for Making Tamarind Shrimp

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best natural sweetness.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and tamarind paste to suit your taste preference.
• Avoid simmering for too long, as this can make the shrimp tough and less sweet.
• You can add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the sauce if desired.

With this simple Tamarind Shrimp recipe, you can confidently prepare this delightful dish at home. Give it a try and share your results!