Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a seafood dish representative of Southeast Asia, where whole shrimp are grilled over an open flame or charcoal with their shells on. In Thailand, it is commonly known as ""Kung Yang"" and is especially popular at floating markets and street stalls. The freshly grilled shrimp is characterized by its savory aroma and firm, springy texture, and is often enjoyed with spicy sauces and herbs. Locally, fresh river or sea shrimp are typically used, making this dish a symbol of regional aquatic resources and food culture.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Baht
- Meal Date
- 5/3/2019
- Food Travel Log
- A less crowded spot with a local feel, the Amphawa Floating Market, is about two hours by bus from Bangkok.
Very affordable grilled shrimp rich in protein makes your stomach happy. Thailand ranks in the top 10 in the world for fishing.
Paired with coconut juice that can't be grown in Japan, the feeling of being in another world reaches its peak!
AI Gourmet Analysis
History and Cultural Background of Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a simple yet profound dish made by grilling fresh shrimp as they are, and it enjoys great popularity in Southeast Asia, particularly at street stalls and floating markets in Thailand. In Thailand, it is also known as "Kung Yang" (กุ้งย่าง), and it mainly uses large tiger prawns or freshwater shrimp. Thailand, which ranks among the top countries in the world for shrimp catches, cherishes grilled shrimp as a symbol of its abundance of seafood, loved by both locals and tourists. Grilled shrimp is a dish that symbolizes the festivity and bustling atmosphere of marketplaces, and especially when enjoyed at floating markets, it offers a taste experience steeped in a traditional ambiance.
Grilled Shrimp at Amphawa Floating Market
Amphawa Floating Market is known as one of the most famous floating markets near Bangkok. Within the market, visitors can sit at simple tables and benches along the river and have freshly caught seafood grilled on the spot. Grilled shrimp, in particular, is known for its crispy exterior, created by grilling over charcoal or on a grill, while the meat inside remains plump and succulent. It's typically served with a spicy Thai seafood dip, which further enhances the flavor. Located about two hours from central Bangkok, this market retains a strong local character, allowing visitors to experience authentic food culture that differs from more touristic floating markets.
The Combination of Shrimp and Coconut
Alongside grilled shrimp, fresh coconut juice is also a popular choice. The tropical taste unique to these regions creates an extraordinary experience that is unattainable in Japan. Coconuts are also abundant in Thailand, and cold coconut juice is said to pair perfectly with shrimp dishes. Enjoying this combination locally broadens the horizon of culinary enjoyment.
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Grilled Shrimp
| Nutrient | Content (per 100g) | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Approx. 20g | Muscle building, immune system boost |
| Vitamin B12 | Approx. 1.1μg | Maintains nervous system and brain health |
| Selenium | Approx. 34μg | Antioxidant, immune support |
| Taurine | Approx. 141mg | Liver function support, cholesterol control |
Shrimp is a very well-balanced seafood, being low in calories but high in protein, and also rich in vitamins and minerals. Especially in the Southeast Asian climate, grilling and eating shrimp immediately is a logical and hygienic way of consumption from both a preservation and preparation standpoint.
The International Spread of Grilled Shrimp Culture
Grilled shrimp is not limited to Thailand; it is a common street food across Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia. However, Thai grilled shrimp especially stands out for its use of large tiger prawns or freshwater shrimp, and for its pairing with spicy dipping sauces, making its taste and ambiance distinctive. The rootedness of outdoor and street food culture in the everyday lives of locals is another reason why this dish has been beloved for years not only by tourists but also by local residents.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp is a representative dish of Southeast Asian, especially Thai culinary culture, and tasting it with fresh coconut juice in lively local places such as Amphawa Floating Market creates an unforgettable memory for travelers. Its high nutritional value and the dynamic eating experience that integrates with the environment are key characteristics of this dish.