Description
Green curry paste is another essential ingredient in Thai cuisine, particularly for making green curry, a flavorful and aromatic dish. It is known for its vibrant green color and balanced blend of herbs and spices.
The ingredients typically include fresh green chilies, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, galangal (or ginger), kaffir lime zest, cilantro roots or stems, shrimp paste, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and sometimes other spices like peppercorns or turmeric.
Similar to Panang curry paste, the ingredients are traditionally pounded together using a mortar and pestle until a smooth paste is formed. However, modern methods often involve using a food processor or blender for convenience.
Green curry paste is versatile and can be used not only to make green curry but also to flavor soups, stir-fries, marinades, and even salad dressings. Its fresh, spicy, and fragrant qualities make it a popular choice in Thai cooking. Adjusting the amount of green chilies can control the level of spiciness in the paste, allowing for customization based on personal preference.