National Dish Thailand: Goong Ob Woon Sen (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Goong Ob Woon Sen, a much-loved Thai classic that brings together plump prawns and silky glass noodles in one fragrant pot. Bright with garlic, fresh herbs and a savoury splash of soy, it is the kind of dish that delights the eye as much as the palate. Fresh, gently spiced and beautifully balanced, it carries the unmistakable taste of Thailand’s coast straight to your own table.
About Goong Ob Woon Sen
Goong Ob Woon Sen is a traditional Thai dish that wins people over above all with its pairing of prawns and glass noodles. The combination makes for a harmonious, well-balanced meal that manages to be both fresh and savoury at once. It is a dish that pleases the eye as readily as the palate, and although it has long been a favourite across Thailand, it has since earned a name for itself well beyond the country’s borders. The art of cooking it lies not only in choosing fresh ingredients but also in striking the right balance of seasonings, which makes it perfect for anyone keen to try something new and chase an exotic flavour. It also adapts easily to different dietary needs, so it suits the whole family.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200g fresh prawns
- 100g glass noodles
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small bunch coriander
- 50ml chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients, take care to choose fresh, good-quality prawns, as they are the heart of the dish. Glass noodles are easy to find in almost any Asian grocery or well-stocked supermarket, while coriander and garlic are everyday staples you can simply pick up in the produce section. For the seasonings and sauces it pays to reach for quality brands so you keep the authentic flavour intact. You can make the chicken stock yourself or buy it ready-made, but watch out for an excessive salt content. For the sesame oil, a trip to an Asian grocery is worthwhile, as you will usually find more aromatic, authentic products there. With the right ingredients in your basket, nothing stands between you and a successful Goong Ob Woon Sen.
Preparing the dish
Preparation is the decisive step towards a successful Goong Ob Woon Sen. Begin by peeling and deveining the prawns, making sure they are thoroughly cleaned. Soak the glass noodles in hot water for a few minutes until soft, then drain them well. Finely chop the garlic and coriander so they are ready to go. For the marinade, stir together the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt and pepper until well combined — this mixture is what later gives the prawns and noodles their characteristic flavour. With everything prepped and within easy reach, you are ready to start the actual cooking.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a large pan or wok and add the sesame oil.
- Add the chopped garlic and fry briefly until lightly golden.
- Add the prawns to the pan and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Add the soaked glass noodles along with the soy sauce and the chicken stock.
- Mix everything together well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the noodles have soaked up the liquid.
- Finally, scatter the chopped coriander over the dish and toss to combine.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of Goong Ob Woon Sen, simply swap the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free one, now widely available in supermarkets. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. For the lactose-free version no changes are needed at all, since the dish contains no dairy. It is still worth reading the ingredient list carefully to make sure there are no hidden gluten- or lactose-containing additives, which can crop up in ready-made products such as chicken stock. Here too, it helps to make your own stock or to choose products that are clearly labelled.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegetarian or vegan take on Goong Ob Woon Sen, replace the prawns with tofu or tempeh. Both offer a similar texture and take on the marinade beautifully. Swap the chicken stock for a good vegetable stock, which still gives the dish a full, rounded flavour. You can also use tamari instead of soy sauce for a version that is both gluten-free and vegan, while every other ingredient stays the same and the result is just as tasty. For extra colour and bite, try experimenting with vegetables such as carrots and peppers.
More tips and tricks
For the best result, cook the prawns only briefly so they stay tender and juicy. Another little secret is to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving, which lends the dish a fresh lift. Using a wok also helps cook everything evenly. If you would like to get ahead, prepare the soy sauce marinade a day in advance and let the prawns sit in it overnight — this deepens the flavour considerably. The glass noodles can be soaked ahead too, so they are ready to use on the day. Many of the same shortcuts apply to the garlicky Goong Gratiem Prik Thai.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Depending on your own preferences, the Goong Ob Woon Sen recipe can be tweaked with ease. If you like things spicy, add chilli flakes or fresh chillies; for a touch of sweetness, stir a teaspoon of sugar into the marinade. Adding more vegetables such as courgette or baby corn is another good way to ring the changes. There are no limits to your creativity with the seasonings either — alongside the traditional coriander you might use parsley or basil, and a dash of fish sauce will make the dish more savoury while heightening the flavour of the prawns.
Ingredient substitutions
If you are not keen on prawns or have to avoid them, grilled chicken or beef make good alternatives, and fish fillets work wonderfully too, giving the dish a different character. In place of glass noodles you can use rice noodles or even spaghetti, depending on what the diners prefer. Should you be unable to find fresh coriander, swap it for dried coriander or parsley. Likewise, instead of soy sauce you might use hoisin sauce, a sweeter and thicker alternative. For a heartier, curry-led variation, take a cue from Pla Muk Pad Pong Karee.
Drink pairing ideas
A light, refreshing drink such as coconut water or a green iced tea goes beautifully with Goong Ob Woon Sen. Both are typically Asian and complement the flavour of the dish. For a more festive occasion, a dry white wine also pairs well, underscoring the aromatic seasonings. Alternatively, a freshly squeezed lemonade is a fine choice, especially if you have made the dish on the spicy side. Alcoholic options such as a ginger-based cocktail can be an interesting addition too, contrasting nicely with the savoury, herby notes.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the whole Goong Ob Woon Sen experience. Serve the dish in an attractive bowl or on a decorative plate, with a little fresh coriander on top to add a splash of colour and underline the flavour. Lemon slices or a few sprouts make pretty, edible garnishes, and the dish should always be served fresh and piping hot. A small bowl of soy sauce or chilli sauce on the side lets diners adjust the seasoning to their own liking — much as you would alongside a generous platter of Yam Talay.
A bit of history
Goong Ob Woon Sen is one of the classic dishes of Thai cuisine and has a long tradition behind it. Originating in Thailand’s coastal regions, it reflects the country’s rich fishing culture and its love of fresh seafood. The pairing of glass noodles and prawns is popular across much of South-East Asia, but in Thailand it holds a special place. Cooking methods and ingredients vary from region to region, which gives the dish great variety and adaptability. In Thailand it is often served at special occasions and festivals, where its harmonious blend of sweet, salty, sour and spicy makes it a true highlight of Thai cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Goong Ob Woon Sen
Goong Ob Woon Sen is a versatile and flavoursome Thai dish that is both easy to make and readily adapted to a range of dietary needs. With fresh prawns, glass noodles and an aromatic marinade, it delivers on every front. Whether you prepare it the traditional way or in a vegan version, this dish brings the taste of Thailand straight into your kitchen. The right ingredients and a few helpful tips ensure it turns out well every time. Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to find your own perfect version — a rewarding dish that suits beginners and seasoned cooks alike, and one that is sure to please every palate.
