Among Thailand’s beloved seafood treasures, fish cake stands out as a dish that perfectly captures the heart of coastal cooking — fresh, flavorful, and irresistibly fragrant.
At Saagar Phuket, our chefs bring this traditional favorite to life using locally sourced fish, aromatic herbs, and authentic Thai spices, creating a version that is light, tender, and bursting with coastal flavor.
Known as “Tod Mun Pla” in Thai cuisine, fish cakes are one of those dishes that immediately transport you to the bustling food markets of Bangkok or the beachside eateries of Phuket. But what makes them truly special at Saagar is the attention to freshness, technique, and balance that ensures every bite delivers the best of Thai seafood cuisine.
The Story Behind Thai Fish Cake
The origins of fish cakes trace back to the fishing communities along Thailand’s coastlines. Traditionally, fishermen would use freshly caught fish to create hearty, protein-rich snacks by mixing minced fish with curry paste and herbs, then frying them until golden. Over time, this humble creation became a street food favorite — served with a crisp salad and sweet chili sauce.
At Saagar Phuket, we preserve this culinary heritage while refining it to suit the elegant dining experience our guests expect. Our version of fish cake honors the traditional flavors of southern Thailand, using only fresh fish and halal ingredients that align with our restaurant’s values.
What Makes Saagar’s Fish Cake Special
A perfect fish cake is tender yet firm, flavorful without being overpowering, and crispy on the outside while moist inside. Achieving this balance requires technique and high-quality ingredients.
Our chefs begin with freshly caught white fish, chosen for its delicate flavor and smooth texture. The fish is finely minced and blended with a fragrant mix of red curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, coriander, and a hint of garlic. This combination gives the fish cakes their signature aroma — citrusy, spicy, and comforting all at once.
Each cake is then shaped by hand and lightly fried until golden brown. The result? A dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy within, perfect as a starter or side dish. Served with a tangy sweet chili sauce and a cucumber relish, it’s a true celebration of Thai coastal flavors.
Ingredients for Authentic Fish Cake
If you’d like to try making our fish cake recipe at home, here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh white fish fillets (such as snapper or cod)
- Thai red curry paste
- Finely shredded kaffir lime leaves
- Chopped green beans
- Fish sauce (halal-certified)
- Sugar
- Oil for frying
Optional additions like chopped coriander or crushed red chili can enhance the spice and fragrance.
How to Make Thai Fish Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Finely mince the fish fillets or blend them into a smooth paste. The smoother the mixture, the better the texture of your fish cakes.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add Thai red curry paste, fish sauce, sugar, and lime leaves to the fish paste. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky and slightly firm.
Step 3: Shape the Cakes
Wet your hands slightly and shape small patties, around the size of your palm. You can also make smaller bite-sized pieces for a snack-style version.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the patties until they turn golden brown and slightly puffed. Each side should take about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve immediately with Thai sweet chili sauce and a side of cucumber salad for contrast.
Cultural Variations of Fish Cake Around Asia
While Thai fish cakes are famous for their bold spice and citrusy notes, the dish has many variations across Asia. Each region adds its own twist — from Japan to Korea.
- Japanese fish cake: Known as Kamaboko, it’s made from pureed white fish and steamed or grilled. It’s often found in ramen or as decorative slices in soups.
- Korean fish cake: Called Eomuk, this version is softer and milder, often used in street foods like Tteokbokki or served on skewers in savory broth.
- Fish cake ramen: In Japan, these cakes are thinly sliced and used as toppings in noodle soups, adding a mild seafood flavor and chewy texture.
At Saagar Phuket, while our focus is on Thai-style fish cake, we take inspiration from these variations to ensure a diverse and exciting menu for seafood lovers.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
A great fish cake can be served in many ways — as an appetizer, part of a platter, or even a main dish. At Saagar, we love pairing it with fresh herbs, cucumber relish, and sticky rice for a balanced Thai meal.
You can also pair it with a side of fish cake ramen for a fusion-style experience, combining Thai spice with Japanese comfort. For those who enjoy experimenting, try crumbling fish cakes over salads or using them in sandwiches for a quick and healthy snack.
Tips for the Perfect Fish Cake
- Use fresh fish – It makes all the difference in texture and taste.
- Don’t over-blend – Keep a bit of texture for that authentic bite.
- Use cold hands when shaping – This prevents the mixture from sticking.
- Fry in small batches – Ensures even cooking and a crisp crust.
- Serve immediately – Fish cakes taste best when hot and fresh.
Fish Cakes at Saagar Phuket: A Coastal Treat Done Right
At Saagar Phuket, every fish cake tells a story — one of Thailand’s coastal traditions, local flavors, and our restaurant’s commitment to authentic, halal Thai cuisine. Whether you’re new to Thai food or a long-time lover, this dish offers a satisfying blend of comfort and flavor.
Enjoyed as a starter or a light meal, our fish cakes are always prepared fresh to order, using the finest seafood and hand-ground spices. They’re crispy, flavorful, and best enjoyed with friends or family while overlooking the tropical beauty of Phuket.
Conclusion
From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the refined setting of Saagar Phuket, fish cakes remain a timeless favorite. Their simplicity, aroma, and vibrant flavor make them a must-try for anyone exploring Thai cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for the bold spice of Thai fish cakes, the comforting warmth of fish cake ramen, or the soft texture of Korean fish cake, this humble dish proves that good food needs nothing more than freshness, balance, and a touch of tradition.
At Saagar Phuket, we invite you to savor this classic — golden, fragrant, and full of authentic Thai soul.