Red curry

Red curry is a cherished Thai dish celebrated for its rich, aromatic flavors and creamy texture. It’s prepared by simmering red curry paste in coconut milk, typically incorporating a choice of protein such as chicken, beef, pork, duck, or shrimp. For vegetarians, tofu is a popular alternative.

The essence of this dish lies in the red curry paste, traditionally crafted by pounding together ingredients like red chilies, garlic, shallots, galangal, shrimp paste, and a blend of spices using a mortar and pestle. Nowadays, ready-made red curry paste is readily available in many grocery stores, making it easier to prepare this delectable meal.

To make red curry, begin by sautéing the red curry paste in a bit of oil until it becomes fragrant. Then, add coconut milk and stir until well combined. Next, introduce your chosen protein. To elevate the flavor, ingredients such as fish sauce, sugar, kaffir lime leaves, Thai eggplant, bamboo shoots, and Thai basil are often incorporated. If you’re preparing a vegetarian version, you can use tofu or vegetables like pumpkin, but note that traditional red curry paste contains shrimp paste.

Typically served with steamed rice, red curry has a delightful, soup-like consistency. The versatile red curry paste can also be used in other Thai dishes, such as fish cakes and Chiang Mai sausage.

Enjoying a bowl of red curry is like embarking on a culinary journey to Thailand, with each spoonful delivering a burst of flavors that are both comforting and exotic.