Thai Black Pepper Seafood, known as Pad Prik Thai Dam Talay, is a delicious stir-fried dish that combines a variety of fresh seafood with aromatic black pepper, garlic, and colorful vegetables in a rich savory sauce. This popular Thai recipe is loved for its bold peppery flavor, quick cooking time, and perfect balance of fresh seafood and fragrant seasonings.

Whether served at a family dinner or a special gathering, Black Pepper Seafood is a restaurant favorite that brings together the natural sweetness of seafood and the warm spice of freshly cracked black pepper.

What Is Thai Black Pepper Seafood?

Pad Prik Thai Dam Talay is a traditional Thai stir-fry made with mixed seafood such as shrimp, squid, mussels, and fish. The seafood is quickly cooked with vegetables and coated in a savory black pepper sauce that enhances its natural flavors without overpowering them.

Unlike spicy chili-based dishes, this recipe relies on the aromatic heat of black pepper to create its distinctive taste.

Ingredients

For the Seafood

  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 200g squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
  • 200g white fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 100g mussels or scallops (optional)

For the Stir-Fry

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 spring onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1½ tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon palm sugar or brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons seafood stock or water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and seafood stock. Stir until well mixed.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Seafood

Add the shrimp, squid, fish, and mussels or scallops. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the seafood begins to cook.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add onion and bell peppers. Continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Pepper

Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and add the freshly cracked black pepper. Toss everything together until the seafood is fully cooked and evenly coated.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add spring onions and stir briefly. Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Seafood

  • Use the freshest seafood available for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and rubbery.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper provides the most authentic aroma.
  • Cook over high heat for a smoky wok-style flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste preference.

Variations

Spicy Black Pepper Seafood

Add sliced Thai bird's eye chilies for extra heat.

Black Pepper Shrimp

Use only shrimp for a simple and elegant version.

Black Pepper Squid

Prepare the dish using squid as the main seafood ingredient.

Black Pepper Seafood with Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms for extra texture and depth of flavor.

What to Serve with Thai Black Pepper Seafood

This flavorful seafood stir-fry pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Brown rice
  • Thai fried rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Clear vegetable soup
  • Fresh cucumber salad

Nutritional Benefits

Seafood is an excellent source of:

  • High-quality protein
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin B12
  • Selenium
  • Iodine
  • Zinc

Black pepper contributes:

  • Antioxidants
  • Digestive support
  • Anti-inflammatory compounds
  • Enhanced nutrient absorption

Final Thoughts

Thai Black Pepper Seafood (Pad Prik Thai Dam Talay) is a vibrant and satisfying dish that showcases the freshness of seafood and the bold aroma of black pepper. Quick to prepare and packed with authentic Thai flavors, this stir-fry is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a delicious restaurant-style meal at home. Serve it with jasmine rice and enjoy a true taste of Thailand in every bite.