This vibrant yellow curry paste is the heart and soul of many traditional Thai dishes. Made with toasted coriander and cumin seeds, dried chilies, and a pungent kick of shrimp paste, it offers a complex balance of heat, earthiness, and savory depth. The addition of fresh aromatics like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic ensures a bright, fragrant profile that transforms simple curries into restaurant-quality meals. Perfect for making ahead, this paste keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing you to whip up a comforting bowl of Kaeng Kari in minutes. It is an essential condiment for any home cook who loves authentic Southeast Asian flavors.
Nam Phrik Kaeng Ka-Ri (Yellow Curry Paste
Description
This vibrant yellow curry paste is the heart and soul of many traditional Thai dishes. Made with toasted coriander and cumin seeds, dried chilies, and a pungent kick of shrimp paste, it offers a complex balance of heat, earthiness, and savory depth. The addition of fresh aromatics like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic ensures a bright, fragrant profile that transforms simple curries into restaurant-quality meals. Perfect for making ahead, this paste keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing you to whip up a comforting bowl of Kaeng Kari in minutes. It is an essential condiment for any home cook who loves authentic Southeast Asian flavors.Ingredients
Directions
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Soak dried chilies in hot water for 15 minutes until softened, then drain and remove seeds.
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In a dry wok or skillet over low heat, toast the shallots, garlic, ginger, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds for about 5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned.
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Allow the toasted mixture to cool, then grind it into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
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Place the soaked chilies, shrimp paste, salt, curry powder, and lemongrass into a blender.
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Add the ground spice mixture to the blender and blend until a smooth, fine-textured paste forms, adding a splash of water if necessary to help the blades move.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 33.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.0g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
- Cholesterol 1.9mg1%
- Sodium 4881.0mg204%
- Total Carbohydrate 6.7g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2.0g8%
- Sugars 2.7g
- Protein 1.2g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Transfer the finished paste into an airtight glass jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 months. For longer storage, freeze in small portions.
Ingredient Note: Lemongrass was listed in the original directions but missing from the ingredient list. Use the tender lower stalks, finely chopped, for best results.
Tip: If you do not have a mortar and pestle, a high-powered blender or food processor works well, though a mortar yields a more authentic texture.
