Indulge in the aromatic allure of green curry, a staple of Thai cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of heat and freshness. This dish features a blend of fresh herbs, creamy coconut milk, and tender vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile option for any meal. Whether served over rice or with noodles, green curry is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your cooking game!
Ingredients
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons green curry paste
– 1 cup diced chicken or tofu
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce or soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Fresh basil leaves
– Lime wedges for serving
– Optional: chili peppers for extra heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of green curry contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on the use of chicken and mixed vegetables.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat coconut milk in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add green curry paste and stir until fragrant.
3. Incorporate diced chicken or tofu and cook until browned.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir well.
5. Pour in the remaining coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add fish sauce and brown sugar, mixing thoroughly.
7. Allow the curry to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce or sugar if needed.
9. Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving.
10. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for substitutes, you can use almond milk instead of coconut milk for a lighter version. Additionally, any protein can be swapped for chicken or tofu, such as shrimp or beef, and you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Serving and Pairings
Green curry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, rice noodles, or quinoa. For added flavor, serve with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad.
Storage and Reheating
To store, place leftover green curry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, you may freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much curry paste can make the dish overly spicy.
- Not simmering long enough can result in tough chicken or undercooked vegetables.
- Forgetting to adjust seasoning at the end can lead to bland flavors.
- Using low-quality coconut milk can affect the creaminess.
- Overcooking the basil will diminish its flavor, add it last.
Helpful Tips
- Start with a small amount of curry paste and adjust according to your spice preference.
- Let the curry rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of lime juice for brightness.
FAQs
What is green curry made of?
Green curry is primarily made of green curry paste, coconut milk, a protein (like chicken or tofu), and a variety of vegetables. The combination creates a rich, aromatic dish that is both spicy and flavorful.
Is green curry spicy?
The spiciness of green curry can vary depending on the amount of curry paste used and the type of chilies in the paste. You can adjust the heat level by starting with less paste and adding more to taste.
Can I make green curry vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure the curry paste is vegetarian. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
How long does green curry last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, green curry can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.
Can I freeze green curry?
Yes, green curry can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Green curry is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a favorite among curry lovers. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy your culinary journey with this vibrant dish!
Green Curry
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons green curry paste
- 1 cup diced chicken or tofu
- 1 cup mixed vegetables bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Fresh basil leaves
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: chili peppers for extra heat
Instructions
- Heat coconut milk in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add green curry paste and stir until fragrant.
- Incorporate diced chicken or tofu and cook until browned.
- Add mixed vegetables and stir well.
- Pour in the remaining coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add fish sauce and brown sugar, mixing thoroughly.
- Allow the curry to simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce or sugar if needed.
- Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
