Panang curry

panang_curry

Thai cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and exotic ingredients, and one of the most popular dishes served in Thai restaurants around the world is Panang curry. This rich and creamy curry is made with a blend of fragrant spices, fresh herbs, coconut milk, and tender chunks of meat, seafood, or vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Panang curry originates from the southern regions of Thailand, where it is enjoyed as a staple dish among the locals. The dish is believed to have been influenced by the flavors of neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia, which is evident in the use of fragrant spices and aromatic herbs.

The key ingredient that sets Panang curry apart from other Thai curries is the use of Panang curry paste, which is made by grinding together a blend of dried chili peppers, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, coriander, cumin, and other spices. This paste gives the curry its distinct flavor and aroma, and forms the base for the creamy coconut milk sauce.

To create the dish, the curry paste is first fried in a hot skillet with aromatic ingredients such as garlic and onions, before adding the meat or vegetables of choice. Once the meat or vegetables are browned, a generous amount of coconut milk is added to the pan, creating a thick and creamy sauce that is infused with the flavors of the paste.

One of the most popular Panang curry dishes is made with chicken, which is cooked in the curry sauce until it is tender and flavorful. The richness of the coconut milk is balanced by the sourness of lime juice, and the curry is finished with a sprinkle of fresh coriander and pieces of crispy fried peanuts.

While chicken is the most commonly used protein source for this dish, other meats such as beef, pork, or lamb can be used as well. Seafood lovers can also enjoy Panang curry with shrimp, squid, or scallops, adding a unique and delicious twist to this classic Thai dish.

For vegetarians or vegans, tofu, tempeh or a selection of crisp vegetables can be substituted instead of meat. This not only makes the dish healthier but also more versatile, allowing everyone to enjoy the delicious flavors of this iconic Thai dish.

In conclusion, Panang curry is an easy to make and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Its rich blend of spices, herbs, coconut milk, and meat or vegetables creates a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners. So why not try this iconic Thai dish at home and get ready to be transported to the sunny beaches of Thailand with each mouthful.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb of chicken or beef, sliced
  • 2-3 tbsp of Panang curry paste
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp of fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp of palm sugar
  • 1 red chili, sliced
  • 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 4-5 Kaffir lime leaves
  • 1/4 cup of peanuts, crushed
  • 1/4 cup of Thai basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tbsp of vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. In a non-stick pan, heat up the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

  2. Add in the Panang curry paste and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Add the chicken or beef to the pan and stir-fry until nearly cooked.

  4. Pour in the coconut milk and water to the pan and bring it to a boil.

  5. Add in the fish sauce, palm sugar, chilli and Kaffir lime leaves.

  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for 5-10 minutes until the chicken or beef is cooked through.

  7. Add the peanuts and Thai basil leaves to the pan and stir them into the curry.

  8. Turn off the heat and squeeze the lime juice over the top of the curry.

  9. Serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy your delicious Thai Panang curry!