Are you craving Thai curry? Then we’ve got something for you!
It should come as no surprise that curry is popular all over Asia. And thanks to immigration and diasporas from east and south Asia, curry has become a tasty dish in the western hemisphere. Jamaican curry powder is very popular, but it isn’t really the same as its cousins from India or Thailand. Are you craving Thai curry? Then we’ve got something for you!
Five Types of Thai Curries
If Thai curry could have a basketball team, a handful of flavors would be the starting five. They are yellow, red, green, Massaman, and Panang. That said, these variations are only the most popular and well-known. Throughout Thailand, you’ll find a dizzying array of regional quirks and secret family recipes. The name of this curry derives from its homeland. That home is a tiny island off the coast of Malaysia called Panang. There’s a high degree of crossover between Thai and Malay food. Want to try this style of curry, but you’re not brave enough to sample a restaurant-made house specialty? Then it’s time to try your hand at making some! So if this is going to be your next culinary adventure, keep in mind that the list of ingredients could be intimidatingly long. That being said, you might be better off heading to your local Thai place and letting them cook for you!
Panang Or Peneng Curry
So what makes this curry style stand out from its cousins? After all, they all have the same flavors and textures. But the peanut steals the show, and indeed, they’re the key ingredient. Without this secret weapon, Panang curry wouldn’t be as delicious as it is. As with its counterparts, a simple curry paste recipe is the foundation of a wonderful meal. Coconut milk or broth is used to make a tasty sauce; within the sauce, you’ll notice lemongrass, galangal, shrimp paste, and coriander. Green curry needs green chilis, while yellow curry demands turmeric and dried curry powder.
The Peanuts Make the Difference
As we indicated above, the peanuts set it apart from all the others. Although it is nearly identical to red curry, it is the only curry that includes peanuts. One recipe that gives you ¾ of a cup of Panang-style curry paste ends up using roughly three tablespoons of peanuts.
Sweeter, Creamier, and Less Spicy
Since there is less red chili pepper, Thai Panang curry isn’t as spicy as its red curry relative. The coconut cream or coconut milk component also lends a dreamy smoothness and sweetness to the final product.
Get All Your Asian Groceries at Lotte Plaza Market
Lotte Plaza Market is your go-to destination for all of your Korean and Asian grocery needs. With more than 10 Maryland and Virginia locations, this growing market is continually expanding and opening new markets to serve our customers better. Since we opened in 1976, our goal has always been to provide the best customer service and groceries to our customers. For answers to all of your questions, please email us at LottePlaza.com.