Grocery
Green Curry Paste
What it is
This is a fragrant and spicy paste made from a blend of fresh green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, and various aromatic spices. It forms the flavorful base for many traditional Thai green curry dishes. The paste is concentrated, meaning a little goes a long way to impart its distinctive taste and heat.
How people cook with it
Green curry paste is a versatile ingredient for creating authentic Thai flavors at home. It can be used to quickly build complex flavor profiles in a variety of dishes.
- Flavoring curries
- Marinades for meats
- Stir-fry sauces
- Soups and broths
To make a green curry, sauté the paste in a little oil until fragrant, which helps to release its aromatic compounds. Then, add coconut milk and simmer to create the curry sauce. It can also be incorporated into marinades for chicken or fish, or added to stir-fries for an extra kick of flavor and heat. For a lighter option, a small amount can be stirred into noodle soups.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to red or yellow curry pastes, green curry paste is typically the spiciest due to the higher proportion of fresh green chilies. It also offers a brighter, more herbaceous flavor profile from ingredients like lemongrass and cilantro stems.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to recreate authentic Thai cuisine will find this paste indispensable.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any leftover paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen in small portions for longer storage, ensuring its vibrant flavor is preserved for future use.