Sour Spicy Fish Curry (Kaeng som)

Kaeng som is a sour, water-based Thai curry that is typically prepared with fish or shrimps and a thick paste that usually incorporates shallots, chilis, and shrimps. The dish comes in numerous varieties, and it can greatly differ depending on the region.

In southern Thailand, it often incorporates turmeric and is occasionally listed on the menus as orange or yellow curry, but it should not be confused with the classic, coconut-based yellow curry known as kaeng kari. The varieties found in central regions are usually enriched with tamarind pulp that gives the dish its typical sour flavor.

Kaeng som can be prepared with various vegetables, while the common modern addition also includes cha om cake - a pan-fried, egg-based dish made with acacia leaves.