What Is This Thai Dish With Spicy Dip?

[AverageAussie]

On a recent Thailand visit, I came across a delicacy I never encountered before and am curious:

1. What it is? Name and a recipe.

2. Can I get it in Australia and where?

I was told it was a "Thai Mango" but looks nothing like the ones you find in our markets. Long & green (much like a cucumber) with a fresh, crispy, slightly sweet flavor - cut into thin (1.5 - 2mm) slices.

It is then dipped to add a very spicy flavor. I tried it twice; once in a bar the dip was a dry powder with chilies & herbs etc and then in a restaurant with a paste dip (see below).

The resulting taste was an exquisite mix of sweet and spicy - much better than your standard packet of chips and probably 1000 times healthier. I'm also curious if I can get it outside of LOS.

[Jingthing]

That's green UNRIPE mango.

Mangos if imported would generally be imported more ripe (I think).

Similar idea:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nam_phrik

Nam Phrik.

Fluid chili pepper!

Edited November 15, 2012 by Jingthing

[Michaelaway]

The dip is Nam Pla Wan.

[AverageAussie]

Thanks Jingthing & Michaelaway!

I was able to find a link with a recipe and description here - I think that is it.

The only thing still unresolved is - what is the herb & spice powder?

Edited November 15, 2012 by AverageAussie

[whatchamacallit]

Thanks Jingthing & Michaelaway!

I was able to find a link with a recipe and description here - I think that is it.

The only thing still unresolved is - what is the herb & spice powder?

http://allrecipes.asia/recipe/2075/nam-pla-wan--sweet-fish-sauce-.aspx

[whatchamacallit]

Oops I didn't see you have found the recipe already :-). Your recipe is correct - not sure what powdery spice you are talking about... But the powdery stuff could be from the ground dried shrimp. When I made mine to add more of a kick I also added dried ground chili :-)

[nalaknarak]

The dip is Nam Pla Wan.

Yes, that's right! My Thai friends love it!