Massaman Curry Recipe – Thailand's Comfort Dish

Name: Massaman Curry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Thailand
Ingredients: bay leaves; brown sugar; can coconut milk; carrots; chicken broth; cilantro for garnish; cinnamon stick; cloves garlic; cubed; fish sauce; g beef chicken; lamb cut into bite sized pieces; massaman curry paste; onion; peanuts; potatoes; steamed jasmine rice for serving; tamarind paste; vegetable oil; water

Massaman Curry is a flavorful Thai dish that showcases a unique blend of spices influenced by Indian cuisine. This rich and hearty curry is often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings in Thailand, where it's commonly served with rice. Its comforting flavors make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 lb (450 g) beef, chicken, or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons Massaman curry paste
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup peanuts, roasted
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons tamarind paste
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 cinnamon stick
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup water or chicken broth
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Steamed jasmine rice (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Protein

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add the beef, chicken, or lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Saut√© until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Curry Paste

Add the Massaman curry paste to the pot and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Coconut Milk and Spices

Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.

Add the cinnamon stick and bay leaves.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot.

Return the browned meat to the pot as well.

Season the Curry

Stir in the fish sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, and roasted peanuts.

Add the water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.

Serve

Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Massaman Curry?

Massaman Curry is a rich and aromatic Thai curry made with meat, potatoes, and a blend of spices.

Where does Massaman Curry come from?

Massaman Curry has Persian and Indian influences and is thought to have originated in Southern Thailand.

What are the main ingredients in Massaman Curry?

The key ingredients include beef, chicken or lamb, coconut milk, potatoes, carrots, and Massaman curry paste.

How long does Massaman Curry take to make?

Massaman Curry takes approximately 55-70 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Massaman Curry?

Serve Massaman Curry with steamed jasmine rice or naan for a complete meal.

Massaman Curry