Nahm prik pao, or "roasted chili paste," is a rustic, spectacularly tasty condiment made from easy-to-find ingredients. The trick to this simple recipe is to keep the herbs on the pleasing side of burnt, while allowing them to blossom into the robust, charred concoction beloved by Thais. Traditionally this preparation is made by roasting the chilies, shallots, and garlic in or over the feisty coals of charcoal stoves used in upcountry kitchens. If you have a lively bed of coals or a good grill, roast or grill the chilies, shallots, and garlic to a handsome darkness, turning with tongs or chopsticks before they incinerate. Use the chili paste in Tome Yum Soup with Mushrooms and Tofu, Zucchini and Tofu in Roasted Chili Paste, and Crispy Rice Cakes with Roasted Chili Paste.
Read more: Recipe: Roasted Chili Paste http://www.globalgourmet.com/food/egg/egg1097/chilipaste.html#ixzz40hR2uGnx