Thai cuisine is known for its unique flavors, combining spicy, sweet, and tangy elements into a single dish. Thai Red Curry is one of those vegetarian dishes that stand out due to its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavors. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious vegetarian Thai Red Curry, with a special focus on a unique ingredient: Red Thai Guava.
Here are the basic ingredients needed to prepare this flavorful curry:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut Milk | 400 ml |
| Red Thai Curry Paste | 2 tbsp |
| Red Thai Guava | 1 large, chopped |
| Mixed Vegetables (Broccoli, Bell Peppers, Carrots) | 2 cups |
| Tofu | 200 grams |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Lime Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 10-12 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Water | As needed |
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping the mixed vegetables. Keep them aside. Dice the tofu into small cubes and lightly fry them in a pan until golden brown.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
- Add Red Thai Curry Paste: Add the red Thai curry paste to the pan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes to release its flavors. This paste is the heart of your curry and provides the base for that rich and spicy flavor.
- Incorporate Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk slowly while stirring. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, creating a creamy base for your curry.
- Introduce Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots) to the pan. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still retain their crunch.
- Red Thai Guava Addition: The twist in this recipe is the addition of Red Thai Guava, which adds a subtle sweetness and a tropical flavor to the dish. Add the chopped guava pieces to the curry at this stage and let them cook with the vegetables for an additional 5 minutes.
- Tofu and Seasoning: Add the fried tofu cubes, soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and sugar to balance the flavors. Simmer the curry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finishing Touches: Once everything is cooked, garnish the curry with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and add water if the curry is too thick.
- Serve Hot: Serve your delicious Thai Red Curry with steamed jasmine rice or noodles. It’s perfect for a comforting meal, filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome vegetables.
Why Use Red Thai Guava in Curry?
Red Thai Guava is a lesser-known but highly nutritious fruit that adds a unique twist to traditional Thai curries. Its mildly sweet flavor complements the spiciness of the curry paste, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Additionally, the soft texture of guava pairs well with the creamy coconut milk, giving the dish an interesting mouthfeel.
- Homemade vs Store-Bought Paste: While store-bought red curry paste is convenient, making it at home ensures a fresher and more vibrant flavor. If you’re using store-bought, opt for a high-quality brand for the best results.
- Vegan Option: To make this curry completely vegan, simply check that your red curry paste is free of shrimp paste or fish sauce.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of curry paste. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the quantity or add a bit of sugar to balance the heat.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Approx. Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
Q1: Can I substitute Red Thai Guava with another fruit?
Yes, you can replace Red Thai Guava with fruits like pineapple or mango for a different sweet twist, but the unique flavor of guava will be missed.
Q2: What other vegetables can be added to this curry?
You can add zucchini, eggplant, baby corn, or mushrooms to the curry. Any vegetable that absorbs flavors well works perfectly.
Q3: Can I make this curry ahead of time?
Yes, Thai Red Curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q4: What can I serve with Thai Red Curry?
Steamed jasmine rice or flat noodles pair best with this curry. You can also serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier option.
Q5: How can I make this curry spicier?
For more heat, you can add freshly chopped red chilies or increase the amount of red curry paste.
Conclusion
Thai Red Curry is a versatile dish that can easily be customized based on the ingredients available. The addition of Red Thai Guava brings a unique flavor dimension to the traditional vegetarian curry, making it even more delightful. This recipe is perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal, offering a balance of spicy, sweet, and savory elements in every bite. Enjoy this curry with friends and family, and don’t forget to adjust the spice level according to your preference!
