Instructions: Heat the oil in a large skillet to 375 F. Deep-fry the fish fillets until very crispy and golden brown.

Charcoal-broil/grill the chilies, garlic and shallots until their outsides are charred. Remove the garlic and shallot skins.

Place the fried fish, chilies, garlic and shallots in a mortar and mash with the pestle until smooth, or use the blender.

Place the shrimp paste, fish sauce and palm sugar in a small saucepan and cook for about 15 minutes on medium-high heat, so that the mixture is reduced to a paste.

Thoroughly combine the mashed ingredients with the reduced sauce ingredients.

Store in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and use as a dipping sauce or for cooking.

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