Thai Green Curry is one of Thailand’s most iconic dishes, loved for its rich flavors, aromatic ingredients, and the perfect balance of spicy and creamy notes. This fragrant dish is made using a green curry paste, which combines fresh herbs, spices, and green chilies to create its signature taste. Whether you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors or looking for a new dish to try, Thai Green Curry is the perfect choice to spice up your dinner table.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Thai Green Curry at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Green Curry Paste: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
- Coconut Milk: 2 cups (full-fat for a creamy texture)
- Vegetable or Chicken Stock: 1 cup (for added depth of flavor)
- Protein (optional): 1 cup (choose from chicken, tofu, or mixed vegetables)
- Vegetables: 1 cup (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or any preferred veggies)
- Aromatics: 1 onion (sliced thinly), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- Fresh Herbs: 1-2 kaffir lime leaves (torn), a handful of Thai basil leaves
- Seasonings: 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan version), 1 tablespoon brown sugar, salt to taste, 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Spices: 1-2 Thai green chilies (adjust based on preferred spice level)
- Oil: 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for cooking
Recipe (Procedure)
- Prepare the Green Curry Paste (if making from scratch): If you’re using homemade curry paste, blend green chilies, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, cilantro roots, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, and other spices together in a food processor until smooth. If using store-bought paste, skip this step.
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat. Put the sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Green Curry Paste: Stir in the green curry paste and chopped green chilies. Cook the paste for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors and aromas.
- Add Coconut Milk and Stock: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable or chicken stock, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Vegetables and Protein: Add your choice of vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant) and your protein (chicken, tofu, or both) into the pot. Stir gently to coat the ingredients in the curry sauce.
- Simmer the Curry: Let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the protein is cooked through. The flavors will meld together beautifully as it cooks.
- Season and Adjust Flavor: Add fish sauce (or soy sauce), brown sugar, lime juice, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Stir well and taste the curry. Adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or sugar if needed.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, stir in the Thai basil leaves, which will add a burst of fresh, fragrant flavor.
- Serve: Serve your Thai Green Curry hot with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a squeeze of lime for an added touch of freshness.
Conclusion
Thai Green Curry is a perfect blend of bold flavors and aromatic spices that will transport your taste buds to Thailand. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or vegan, this curry is highly versatile and can be easily customized. It’s a great dish for weeknight dinners or whenever you’re craving something both spicy and aromatic. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious homemade Thai Green Curry tonight!