Thai Red Curry Paste, easy to make and bursting with flavor, is a key enhancer for Thai curries, soups, and stir-fries. This homemade version stays fresh for weeks in the fridge and up to a month in the freezer, making it a versatile and convenient staple in your kitchen.
18Dry Red Chilisoaked in water, remove seeds if needed
1tbspLemongrassremove the outer thick layer and use the inner part
1tspGalangalchopped
1tbsp Coriander Seedscrushed or grounded
½tsp Cumin Powder
3Shallotssmall onion
4Garlic cloves
2tbspCoriander Leavesstem and leaves chopped
½tsp Shrimp Paste in oilor oyster sauce
1tsp Lemon Juiceor 3 kaffir lime leaves if handy
3 tbspChili Soaked Water
½tspFish Saucesubstitute with veg or vegan fish sauce
2Thai Red Chilioptional
Instructions
To Make Thai Red Curry Paste
Begin by placing the dry red chilies in a bowl and covering them with warm water.
Let the chilies soak for at least 15 minutes. Once soaked, drain them but keep the chili-infused water aside for later use.
In a blender, combine the soaked chilies with the other ingredients from the ingredient list.
Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth paste.
Finally, transfer your freshly made red curry paste into an air-tight container for storage.
To Use
Incorporate this homemade Thai Red Curry Paste into recipes that require it, such as vegetable Thai red curry or chicken Thai red curry.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips for making Thai Red Curry Paste:
Red Chilies and Spice Level: This paste's spice comes from dry red chilies. However, the spiciness mellows when mixed with coconut milk in curries. To further control the heat, consider removing the seeds from the chilies.
Galangal: Although similar to ginger, galangal has a distinct citrusy flavor. If unavailable, ginger can be a suitable substitute.
Fish Sauce and Shrimp Paste: These ingredients are key to the authentic taste of Thai curries, adding salty, savory, and umami flavors. For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can use vegan fish sauce or oyster sauce as substitutes.
Substitute for Red Curry Paste: If you're looking for an alternative to Thai Red Curry Paste, harissa paste can be a close substitute. Keep in mind, though, that it lacks the distinct salty and umami flavors typical of Thai dishes.