The Best Homemade Red Curry Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Making red curry at home is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely delicious. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants to try something new in the kitchen.

• Customizable Heat: You can adjust the spiciness to match your taste, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and spices brings out vibrant flavors you won’t find in store-bought versions.
• Quick and Simple: With just a few steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time.

Recipe

Red curry is a flavorful and aromatic Thai dish known for its rich, spicy, and slightly sweet taste. Made with a homemade red curry paste, coconut milk, and tender meat or vegetables, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp homemade red curry paste
• 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
• 500g chicken, beef, or tofu, sliced
• 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
• 1 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 5-6 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the red curry paste and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in half of the coconut milk and stir well to combine with the paste. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the meat or tofu and cook until partially done.
4. Pour in the remaining coconut milk, bamboo shoots, and bell pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Season with fish sauce and palm sugar, adjusting to taste.
6. Add kaffir lime leaves and simmer for another 5 minutes until the meat is fully cooked.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Thai basil leaves before serving.

Notes:

• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less curry paste.
• For a vegetarian version, use tofu and replace fish sauce with soy sauce.

Equipment:

• Large pan or wok
• Wooden spoon

Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes

Cuisine: Thai

Serving: 4

Nutrition

Red curry is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 320

Total Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 12g

Cholesterol: 45mg

Sodium: 850mg

Total Carbohydrates: 15g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 6g

Protein: 18g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade red curry with steamed jasmine rice or crispy roti, which soak up the rich flavors beautifully. For a revitalizing contrast, I’ll add a side of cucumber salad or stir-fried vegetables to balance the dish. A cold Thai iced tea or a citrusy sparkling water completes the meal perfectly!

Complementary Side Dishes

When I’m serving homemade red curry, I always think about what sides will balance the rich, spicy flavors. Spicy salads, like a crisp cucumber and mint mix with a chili-lime dressing, cut through the heat while adding freshness. Tangy pickles, whether quick-pickled carrots or radishes, bring a bright contrast that keeps each bite exciting. I also love steamed jasmine rice—it soaks up the curry’s sauce perfectly. A side of crunchy peanuts or toasted coconut adds texture. These pairings don’t overpower the dish but enhance it, making every spoonful more satisfying. Experiment and find your favorites!

Perfect Beverage Pairings

Since a great drink can balance the bold flavors of red curry, let’s talk about what to sip alongside it. I love pairing it with spicy cocktails—think a tangy ginger margarita or a zesty jalapeño mojito—to echo the curry’s heat while adding a revitalizing twist. If you’re not into alcohol, chilled smoothies are my go-to. A creamy mango or coconut smoothie cools your palate without competing with the dish. I often make a simple pineapple mint smoothie; it’s light, hydrating, and complements the curry’s richness perfectly. Trust me, these pairings elevate the whole meal!