- Coconut milk (key ingredient for richness and flavor)
- Tomatoes (for acidity and natural sweetness)
- Green chili peppers (spicy kick, optional based on preference)
- Kaffir lime leaves (essential for authentic flavor; can be substituted with lime juice)
- Galangal or ginger (both work well, use whichever is available)
- Lemongrass (cut into sections for aroma and flavor)
- Red curry paste (core ingredient, contains spices like coriander, cumin, and cardamom)
- Fish sauce (for depth of flavor; use soy sauce as a vegetarian alternative)
- Palm sugar or brown sugar (to balance the heat from red curry paste)
- Garlic cloves (minced for better blending with other ingredients)
- Green onions or scallions (chopped, added at the end for freshness)
- Lime juice (optional but enhances overall taste and color)
- Vegetable oil (for sautéing; can use chicken fat or ghee instead)
- Salt (to taste)
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Steps
### How to Make Chicken Panang Curry: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chicken Panang curry is a delicious Thai dish that combines rich flavors with tender chicken. Perfect for those who love spicy yet creamy curries! Follow these detailed steps to create an authentic and flavorful panang curry at home.
#### Ingredients:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated or minced
- 4 green chilies, deseeded and chopped (adjust according to spice preference)
- 2 tbsp panang curry paste (you can find it in Asian markets or online)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional for gluten-free alternatives)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt, to taste
- 3 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
- 2 kaffir lime leaves (or zest from one lime for a milder flavor)
- 2 cups baby corn or sliced bell peppers (for added texture)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare Ingredients**: Start by preparing your ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies.
2. **Cooking the Chicken Base**:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds, just enough to release their fragrant aromas without burning them.
3. **Adding Spices**:
- Increase the heat to medium-high, add the panang curry paste, and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until you can smell the spices.
- Be cautious not to burn the paste as it can become bitter quickly.
4. **Adding Liquids and Vegetables**:
- Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
- Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves (or zest), fish sauce (if using), sugar, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
5. **Cooking the Chicken**:
- Gently add the chicken pieces into the curry mixture. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
6. **Adding Veggies**:
- Towards the end of cooking, add baby corn or sliced bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the flavors but ensuring they remain crisp-tender.
7. **Final Touches and Serving**:
- Taste the curry and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
8. **Serving Suggestions**:
- Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread on the side. Panang curry pairs exceptionally well with its mild spiciness.
#### Tips for Success:
- Always use fresh ingredients, especially for spices like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.
- Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain tender but not dry.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer green chilies based on your preference.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Panang Curry! This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a fun family meal. Don't forget to share your creations and experiences with us using #ChickenPanangCurry at home.