Phanaeng Curry, also known as Panang or Penang Curry, is a rich and flavorful Thai dish that hails from the southern part of Thailand. Renowned for its creamy and aromatic coconut milk-based sauce, Phanaeng Curry offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to guide you through creating this delicious Thai curry at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs (about 700g) of your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
- 2 cans (800ml) of coconut milk
- 3-4 tablespoons of Phanaeng curry paste
- 2 tablespoons of peanut or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of palm sugar or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce or soy sauce for a vegetarian version
- 1 kaffir lime leaf, thinly sliced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh Thai basil leaves (for garnish)
- Crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Protein:
- Cut the protein of your choice into bite-sized pieces. If using chicken or beef, ensure they are properly trimmed and free of excess fat.
- Cooking the Curry Paste:
- In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the Phanaeng curry paste and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until it becomes fragrant.
- Adding Coconut Milk:
- Pour in one can of coconut milk and let it simmer. Stir well to combine the curry paste with the coconut milk.
- Cooking the Protein:
- Add the prepared protein to the pan and cook until it is fully cooked and absorbs the flavors of the curry paste and coconut milk.
- Seasoning:
- Season the curry with fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version) and palm sugar. Adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.
- Simmering:
- Pour in the second can of coconut milk and add the sliced kaffir lime leaf. Allow the curry to simmer over low heat, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken.
- Garnishing:
- Once the protein is tender and the flavors have developed, remove the curry from heat. Garnish with thinly sliced red chili peppers, fresh Thai basil leaves, and, if desired, crushed peanuts for added texture.
- Serving:
- Serve the Phanaeng Curry over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles. The creamy and aromatic curry pairs wonderfully with the neutral base of rice or noodles.
Phanaeng Curry is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your table. Enjoy the harmony of coconut, spices, and protein in this delicious curry that captures the essence of southern Thai culinary traditions.
