Thai Green Curry & Vegetables Recipe

Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, aromatic herbs, and vibrant colors. One of the most popular dishes in Thai cuisine is the Thai Green Curry. This curry is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we will explore the traditional Thai Green Curry recipe and learn how to make it with a variety of vegetables.

The Origins of Thai Green Curry

Thai Green Curry, also known as “Gaeng Keow Wan” in Thai, originated in Central Thailand. It is believed to have been influenced by Indian and Chinese cuisines, which introduced spices and herbs to the region. The curry paste used in Thai Green Curry is made from a combination of green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, and other aromatic ingredients. These ingredients give the curry its distinct green color and intense flavor.

Ingredients for Thai Green Curry

To make a delicious Thai Green Curry with vegetables, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of green curry paste
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup of broccoli florets
• 1 cup of green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon of palm sugar or brown sugar
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Thai Green Curry with vegetables:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the green curry paste to the pan and stir-fry for a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in half of the coconut milk and stir well to combine with the curry paste.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
5. Add the remaining coconut milk and vegetable broth to the pan and bring it to a simmer.
6. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, green beans, and mushrooms to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the curry sauce.
7. Cover the pan and let the vegetables cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
8. Remove the lid and add soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and palm sugar or brown sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine.
9. Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or more sugar for sweetness.
10. Remove the pan from heat and garnish the curry with fresh basil leaves.

Serving Thai Green Curry

Thai Green Curry is traditionally served with steamed jasmine rice, which helps balance the spiciness of the curry. You can also serve it with noodles or quinoa for a healthier option. Garnish the curry with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations and Tips

While the traditional Thai Green Curry recipe uses a combination of vegetables, you can customize it according to your preference. Here are some variations and tips to consider:

• Add protein: You can add tofu, chicken, shrimp, or any other protein of your choice to make the curry more filling and nutritious.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of green curry paste according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of curry paste.
• Vegetable options: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as eggplant, carrots, snow peas, or baby corn.
• Fresh herbs: Apart from basil, you can also add other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to enhance the flavors of the curry.

Summary

Thai Green Curry is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Its vibrant flavors and aromatic ingredients make it a standout in Thai cuisine. By following the simple recipe and tips mentioned in this article, you can easily recreate this authentic Thai dish in your own kitchen. So, gather the ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of Thailand!