Contents
Introduction
Thai Red Curry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Thai cuisine. With its rich coconut milk base and aromatic spices, this curry is a wonderful blend of taste and texture. It’s easy to make at home and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– ½ medium white onion, thinly sliced
– Sea salt
– 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and sliced into strips
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste (Mekhala brand recommended)
– 1 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
– ½ cup water
– 1 tablespoon tamari
– 2 teaspoons cane sugar
– 4 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed (about 1 cup)
– ½ cup bamboo shoots, drained
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving
– Baked tofu (optional)
– Fresh basil or Thai basil leaves, for garnish
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Red Thai chiles, thinly sliced, for garnish
– Cooked rice, for serving
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3 people
Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the coconut oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and a pinch of sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until the onion softens. Add the red bell pepper slices and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh ginger and red curry paste. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Curry:
Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and ½ cup water. Add the tamari, cane sugar, green beans, and bamboo shoots. Stir to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
3. Season and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice and add the baked tofu, if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, tamari, sugar, and/or lime juice as needed. Serve the curry over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh basil or Thai basil leaves, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced red Thai chiles. For an extra pop of brightness, squeeze a lime wedge over your plate or bowl before enjoying.
Enjoy your homemade Thai Red Curry!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the coconut oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and a pinch of sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until the onion softens. Add the red bell pepper slices and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh ginger and red curry paste. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Simmer the Curry
Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and ½ cup water. Add the tamari, cane sugar, green beans, and bamboo shoots. Stir to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
Season and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice and add the baked tofu, if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, tamari, sugar, and/or lime juice as needed. Serve the curry over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh basil or Thai basil leaves, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced red Thai chiles. For an extra pop of brightness, squeeze a lime wedge over your plate or bowl before enjoying.
Notes
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil adds a rich flavor to the dish but can be substituted with another cooking oil if desired.
Fresh Herbs
For the best flavor, use fresh basil or Thai basil and cilantro.
Adjusting Spice
Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of red curry paste according to your spice preference.
Baked Tofu
Baked tofu adds protein and heartiness, but can be omitted for a lighter curry.
Rice Options
Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of fat over high heat. In this recipe, the sliced onion and red bell pepper are sautéed in coconut oil to enhance their flavors and soften their texture before adding the other ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. The curry is simmered to allow the flavors to meld together and for the green beans to become tender while retaining a slight crunch.
Adjusting Seasoning
Adjusting seasoning means tasting the dish and modifying the flavors to your preference. In this recipe, after combining all the ingredients, lime juice, tamari, sugar, and salt can be added as needed to balance flavors.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the art of decorating a dish to enhance its appearance. This recipe suggests using fresh basil, cilantro, and red Thai chiles as garnishes to provide color and freshness to the Thai Red Curry.
Serving
Serving refers to presenting the dish for consumption. The Thai Red Curry is served over cooked jasmine rice, which serves as a perfect base to absorb the rich flavors of the curry.
FAQ
Can I use another type of oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with another cooking oil, such as vegetable or olive oil, but it may affect the flavor profile of the dish.
Is the red curry paste spicy?
Yes, red curry paste can be spicy, but you can adjust the amount to control the heat level according to your personal preference.
Can I add other vegetables to the curry?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or peas based on your taste and availability.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan, especially if you use baked tofu and skip any animal products.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover Thai Red Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Thai Red Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your home. With its rich coconut milk base, fresh vegetables, and optional baked tofu, it provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s both satisfying and easy to make. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, garnished with fresh herbs and lime for an extra zest.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a heartier meal, consider adding chickpeas or lentils for plant-based protein.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair with homemade spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables and herbs for a delightful appetizer.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Create a side salad with mixed greens, mango, and a light sesame dressing to complement the curry.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve with a side of garlic naan or roti for a unique twist on the traditional rice accompaniment.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy variation that enhances the curry’s flavor profile.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a spicy kick, try incorporating additional Thai chiles or a dash of sriracha sauce.
