Thai Savory Crispy Tartlets

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 50 minutes

Serves: 10

Thai Savory Crispy Tartlets

I drew inspiration from Krathong Thong (กระทงทอง), a traditional Thai appetizer celebrated for its delightful crunch and savory filling. The name translates to "golden cups," symbolizing the crispy tartlet shells that cradle flavorful fillings. While I didn’t have the traditional mold, I improvised with what was available in my kitchen—and I promise, the flavors remain absolutely amazing!

Ingredients

Steps

  • Prepare the Batter :

    1. Mix rice flour and all-purpose flour in a bowl until well combined.

      Mix rice flourMix all-purpose flour in a bowl

    2. Add sugar, salt, egg yolk, and water. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

      Add sugar-Thai Savory Crispy TartletsAdd salt-Thai Savory Crispy TartletsAdd egg yolk-Thai Savory Crispy TartletsAdd water-Thai Savory Crispy TartletsStir until the mixture is smooth.

    3. Strain the mixed batter twice for a smooth, fine texture, then let it rest.

      Strain the mixed batter twice for a smoothfor a smooth batter

  • Prepare the Filling:

    1. Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter.

      Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter.

    2. Once the butter melts, add the chopped onion and sauté until fragrant.

      Once the butter melts, add the chopped onion

    3. Add the Plant-Based Mince and stir well.

      Add the Plant-Based Mince and stir well.

    4. Add the mixed vegetables and continue stirring.

      Add the mixed vegetables and continue stirring.

    5. Season with soy sauce, mixing everything thoroughly. Then let it rest

      Season with soy sauce, Then let it rest for the next step.

  • Fry the Tartlet Shells:

    1. Heat oil in a pan for deep frying.

      Heat oil in a pan for deep frying.

    2. If you have a mold for frying snacks, it can be used for this recipe. If not, here are two alternative methods:

    3. (1) Scoop one spoonful of batter into the hot oil, then press a foil cup gently onto the batter as it begins to set to create a bottle cap shape.

      Scoop one spoonful of batter into the hot oil, then press a foil cup gently onto the batter as it begins to set to create a bottle cap shape.

    4. (2) Scoop one spoonful of batter into the hot oil. As it puffs up and starts to set, use chopsticks to gently pinch the edges together, forming a curved shell suitable for holding the filling.

      As it puffs up and starts to set, use chopsticks to gently pinch the edges together forming a curved shell suitable for holding the filling.

    5. Fry the tartlet shells in the oil until they turn golden and evenly cooked. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Repeat the process until all the batter is used. With this amount, you will yield at least 30 crispy tartlets.

      Fry the tartlet shells in the oil until they turn golden and evenly cooked.

  • Assemble and Serve:

    1. Spoon the prepared filling into the crispy tartlet shells (ensure the filling is not wet and has cooled to prevent the shells from becoming soggy).

      Spoon the prepared filling into the crispy tartlet shells

    2. Arrange the filled tartlets on a serving plate. Garnish each tartlet with a coriander leaf and slivers of red chili.

      Garnish each tartlet with a coriander leaf and slivers of red chili.

Tips

Fillings That Bring Krathong Thong to Life

While the crispy golden shell of Krathong Thong is its signature feature, it’s the filling that truly elevates these Thai tartlets into a delightful culinary experience. Traditionally filled with a savory blend of proteins and vegetables, modern variations have expanded the possibilities to include an array of creative and flavorful options. Here are some beloved choices:

  • Classic Chicken Filling: Minced chicken sautéed with garlic, onions, and peas, brought together with a subtle, fragrant curry sauce.
  • Shrimp and Corn: A sweet and savory medley of diced shrimp and corn kernels, enriched with a hint of creamy coconut milk.
  • Creamy Tuna: A velvety tuna filling mixed with a light white sauce and topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a refined touch.
  • Savory Minced Pork: Stir-fried minced pork combined with diced carrots and spring onions, perfectly seasoned with soy sauce for a rich, umami flavor.
  • Young Coconut Blend: A unique twist featuring shredded young coconut, lightly sweetened with palm sugar and balanced with a dash of salt for a sweet-savory harmony.