Aunt Phailin demonstrates her skill in processing fresh fish from the lake, mixing it with turmeric and lemongrass curry paste, and grilling it over low heat until fragrant. Served with hot sticky rice, it is delicious and budget-friendly.
This winter, anyone visiting Phayao province must not miss tasting this specialty by Phayao Lake, the largest freshwater fish breeding area in northern Thailand. The local rare dish "Herbal Grilled Nile Tilapia" by Aunt Phailin Panyawong uses fresh Nile tilapia from Phayao Lake to create a popular OTOP menu that everyone who tries it loves.
The dish’s uniqueness begins with selecting fresh Nile tilapia meat, cut into bite-sized pieces, then mixed with a traditional herbal curry paste she hand-pounds, containing turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, coriander root, and chili. The curry paste soaks into the fish meat, which is then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over low heat. The scent of grilled banana leaves masks fishy odors and blends with the herbs, resulting in sweet, tender, and juicy fish infused with curry flavor. It can be enjoyed as a snack or paired perfectly with hot sticky rice.
Those interested in tasting it can visit the OTOP market at the Father Khun Num Muang Monument plaza by Phayao Lake, where Aunt Phailin sells it for only 20 baht per pack.
The shop operates every evening, especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, when the atmosphere becomes particularly lively. It is another great local Phayao delicacy that is affordable and offers excellent taste.
