The Thai Shrimp in a Blanket, also known as Goong Hom Pha, is a beloved appetizer featuring marinated shrimp wrapped in delicate spring roll wrappers and fried to golden perfection. Each crispy bite delivers a balance of savory, sweet, and peppery flavors that define authentic Thai cuisine.
These shrimp rolls are not only quick to prepare but also perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Serve them with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce and watch them disappear in seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a tasty Thai snack, this recipe will hit the spot every time.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
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10-12 spring roll wrappers, cut into thirds
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon minced garlic
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1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
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Oil for frying
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Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
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In a bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Add shrimp and marinate for 20 minutes.
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Cut each spring roll wrapper into thirds, creating long strips.
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Take one marinated shrimp, place it at the end of a wrapper strip, and roll tightly. Use beaten egg to seal the edge.
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Repeat until all shrimp are wrapped.
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Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry wrapped shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
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Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Thai Shrimp in a Blanket (Goong Hom Pha)
Thai Shrimp in a Blanket, or Goong Hom Pha, is a popular Thai appetizer that’s equal parts elegant and delicious. Known for its irresistible crispy exterior and succulent shrimp interior, this dish is often served at Thai restaurants, celebrations, and street food markets. Its name, “Goong Hom Pha,” literally translates to “shrimp wrapped in a blanket,” referring to the golden wrapper that encases each piece of shrimp like a snug robe.
This appetizer is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crunchy and tender, savory and slightly sweet—often paired with a sweet chili dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor contrast. What makes Goong Hom Pha truly special is its ability to be both simple in preparation and sophisticated in presentation, making it an ideal starter for both casual meals and formal gatherings.
Cultural Significance and Origins
Goong Hom Pha is deeply rooted in Thai culinary traditions, particularly in royal and celebratory cuisine. In traditional Thai meals, the concept of “khanom jeen” (small bites or starters) is prominent, and shrimp in a blanket fits perfectly into this framework. While variations of wrapped or rolled foods can be found across Asia, the Thai version is distinct for its use of marinated shrimp and its pairing with sweet chili sauce, a staple in Thai condiment culture.
In Thai celebrations such as New Year’s feasts, weddings, or temple fairs, you’ll often find Goong Hom Pha served alongside other classic appetizers like satay skewers or tod man pla (Thai fish cakes). Its popularity stems not just from its taste but from the way it represents Thai hospitality—offering bite-sized, beautifully wrapped portions meant for sharing.
Why This Dish Works
At its core, Thai Shrimp in a Blanket is a study in contrasts. The crispy spring roll wrapper provides the perfect crunch, which plays off the juicy, tender shrimp inside. The shrimp is often marinated beforehand, allowing it to absorb aromatic Thai flavors—like garlic, soy, oyster sauce, and white pepper—infusing each bite with complexity. The addition of sesame oil gives it a slightly nutty undertone that enhances the umami profile of the dish.
This dish is also incredibly adaptable. You can make it spicy, sweet, or even serve it with a peanut-based dipping sauce instead of the traditional sweet chili. Some cooks prefer to include fresh herbs inside the wrap, like Thai basil or cilantro, to add a burst of freshness. It’s this versatility that makes the dish accessible and appealing to a wide range of palates.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
Quality of shrimp is paramount in this recipe. Using large, fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined ensures a plump, juicy interior. Leaving the tails on not only makes them easier to grab and dip but also adds to the visual appeal.
Spring roll wrappers must be handled carefully. Too dry, and they’ll crack; too moist, and they’ll fall apart or turn soggy when fried. The ideal texture is achieved by keeping them covered with a damp cloth and working with one at a time.
When frying, temperature control is key. Oil that’s too hot will burn the wrappers before the shrimp inside cooks. Oil that’s too cool will make them greasy. Maintaining a medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C) results in that perfect golden crunch.
If you’re looking to prepare ahead, the wrapped shrimp can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator a few hours before frying. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just be sure to thaw slightly before frying to prevent splatter.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
The most classic pairing for Thai Shrimp in a Blanket is sweet chili dipping sauce, which complements the saltiness of the shrimp and adds a hint of heat and sweetness. You can also serve them with a garlic-soy vinaigrette or a tangy lime-fish sauce dip if you want a more acidic balance.
For a complete meal, pair these crispy shrimp with a light Thai salad like Som Tum (green papaya salad), a bowl of Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), or some fragrant jasmine rice. They also go well with a refreshing Thai iced tea or a sparkling citrus cocktail.
Visually, these shrimp are already stunning thanks to the golden, crispy wrappers and the delicate shrimp tails peeking out. You can plate them standing up like soldiers in a shot glass of dipping sauce, arrange them in a spiral around a central bowl of sauce, or stack them pyramid-style on a serving platter for maximum impact.
Nutritional Insight
While Thai Shrimp in a Blanket is often deep-fried, it can still be a relatively light appetizer when portioned properly. Shrimp is naturally high in protein and low in fat, and using thin wrappers helps minimize overall carb content. You can even opt for baking or air frying if you want a healthier twist without sacrificing too much on texture.
Those watching their sodium intake may want to reduce or omit soy sauce or use a low-sodium alternative. And if you’re catering to gluten-free guests, rice paper or gluten-free spring roll wrappers make excellent substitutions.
Modern Variations and Fusion Ideas
Modern chefs and home cooks alike are experimenting with Goong Hom Pha by infusing it with global flavors. For example, adding cream cheese and jalapeño gives it a Thai-Mexican fusion vibe. Wrapping shrimp in prosciutto before enclosing it in a spring roll wrapper adds a layer of savory depth.
Some food trucks and upscale Thai-fusion restaurants are also presenting this dish as mini shrimp cigars, cutting them smaller and serving them as canapé-style bites. Others add ingredients like shredded coconut, lemongrass, or kaffir lime leaves inside the wrapper for a more aromatic experience.
Another fun idea is to bake or air-fry them and glaze with a sweet soy reduction or Sriracha honey for a bold, sticky finish. The versatility of this dish means you can truly tailor it to your creative vision, all while keeping its Thai essence intact.
Why You Should Add This to Your Recipe Collection
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned food lover, Thai Shrimp in a Blanket is a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s one of those rare dishes that look impressive, taste incredible, and don’t require a professional kitchen to master. With just a few ingredients and some basic wrapping and frying techniques, you can create a show-stopping appetizer that elevates any occasion.
Moreover, this dish makes an excellent conversation starter. If you’re entertaining, you’ll often hear, “These are amazing! What are they called?” followed by compliments on the crispy texture and balanced flavors. It’s an instant hit at potlucks, holiday dinners, or even casual Friday nights when you want something fun and flavorful.
Conclusion
Thai Shrimp in a Blanket (Goong Hom Pha) is a delightful representation of Thai culinary artistry—simple, flavorful, and full of character. It showcases the harmony of taste and texture that Thai cuisine is famous for. With its crispy exterior, juicy shrimp filling, and bold dipping sauces, it’s a recipe that stands the test of time and adapts beautifully to modern kitchens and palates.
Add this to your appetizer rotation and you won’t be disappointed. Not only will it wow your guests, but it’ll also deepen your appreciation for Thai cooking’s balance, beauty, and boldness. Goong Hom Pha isn’t just a dish—it’s a delicious invitation into the heart of Thailand’s rich food culture.