Gai Pad Med Mamuang
ไก่ผัดเม็ดมะม่วงหิมพานต์ (guy paht met ma-MWANG him-ma-PAHN)
Thai Cashew Chicken
Tender chicken stir-fried with roasted cashew nuts, dried chilies, onions, and bell peppers in a savory-sweet sauce. This Thai-Chinese fusion dish offers a perfect balance of crunchy nuts and succulent chicken in every bite.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Instructions
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1
Toast the cashew nuts in a dry wok over medium heat for three minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant, then remove immediately to prevent burning and set aside.
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2
Heat oil in the wok over high heat until shimmering, add dried chilies and fry for thirty seconds until they darken slightly and release their smoky aroma into the oil.
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3
Add garlic and chicken pieces to the wok, spreading them in a single layer, and sear without stirring for two minutes until the chicken develops golden edges and a slight crust.
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4
Toss the chicken and add onion wedges and bell pepper, stir-frying vigorously for three minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the chicken is cooked through completely.
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5
Pour in oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar, then toss everything together for one minute until the sauce coats every piece and creates a glossy, savory-sweet glaze.
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6
Return the toasted cashews to the wok, give everything a final toss to distribute the nuts evenly, then transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sliced scallions and a few extra cashews.
Did You Know?
Thailand is one of the world's largest cashew producers, and the cashew tree was originally brought to Southeast Asia by Portuguese traders in the sixteenth century. The Thai name 'mamuang himaphan' means 'heavenly mango nut.'
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- wok
- wok spatula
The Story Behind Gai Pad Med Mamuang
Cashew chicken reflects the deep Chinese culinary influence on Thai cuisine that intensified during the twentieth century. Chinese stir-fry techniques merged with locally grown cashew nuts, Thai chilies, and fish sauce to create a dish that is distinctly Thai despite its Chinese cooking method. The dish gained popularity in Thai restaurants worldwide during the 1980s and 1990s as Thai cuisine experienced a global boom. In Thailand itself, it remains a beloved weeknight dinner that showcases the balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors central to Thai cooking philosophy.
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