Jungle Curry Paste (Kaeng Paa

Servings: 3 Difficulty: Beginner
Intense, herbaceous Thai curry base made without coconut milk
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Authentic Jungle Curry paste, or Kaeng Paa, is the fiery foundation of one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes. Unlike other Thai curries, this paste relies on fresh herbs, chilies, and aromatics rather than coconut milk to deliver a robust, savory punch. The combination of galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and dried red chilies creates a complex flavor profile that is both spicy and aromatic. This versatile paste is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, pairing beautifully with chicken, pork, or tofu. It offers a satisfying, home-style taste that brings the vibrant energy of Thai street food to your kitchen table.

Jungle Curry Paste (Kaeng Paa recipe image
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Jungle Curry Paste (Kaeng Paa

Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 3 Calories: 7.4

Description

Authentic Jungle Curry paste, or Kaeng Paa, is the fiery foundation of one of Thailand's most beloved dishes. Unlike other Thai curries, this paste relies on fresh herbs, chilies, and aromatics rather than coconut milk to deliver a robust, savory punch. The combination of galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and dried red chilies creates a complex flavor profile that is both spicy and aromatic. This versatile paste is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, pairing beautifully with chicken, pork, or tofu. It offers a satisfying, home-style taste that brings the vibrant energy of Thai street food to your kitchen table.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Prepare the aromatics by mincing the shallots, garlic, galangal, lemongrass, cilantro root, and kaffir lime leaf.
  2. If using dried red chilies, remove the seeds and mince them finely.
  3. Place all minced ingredients, shrimp paste, and salt into a mortar or a small bowl.
  4. Using a pestle or the back of a metal spoon, pound and press the mixture firmly.
  5. Continue pounding and stirring until the ingredients break down and combine into a cohesive, thick paste.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 3


Amount Per Serving
Calories 7.4kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 1.7g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 0.3g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: jungle curry, kaeng paa, thai curry paste, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime, dried chilies, shrimp paste, spicy, aromatic, herbaceous, thai cuisine, curry base, homemade paste, spicy thai
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