Are you curious to find out everything you need to know about how to cook with curry paste, this magical ingredient full of spices? This article is your answer! You also get 10 inspiring recipes with curry paste!
In case you never made a curry before, then you probably haven’t used a curry paste either. And if that’s true, then you should get ready to unlock a new world of possibilities and flavors! A curry paste is such a wonderful ingredient that encapsulates TONS of flavor. It’s yummy, it’s versatile and it’s extremely easy to use. Curious?
Let’s find out everything there is to know about curry paste:
What is curry paste?
Curry paste is a staple ingredient in Indian and Thai cuisine, but you can also find it in some other parts of the world as well (just as Japan).
A curry paste is basically a mix of chilies, herbs, and spices. A basic curry paste contains chilies, lemongrass, garlic, root ginger, and spices such as cumin, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, peppercorns, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, and more.
One of THE best things about any curry paste is that it’s extremely easy to cook with! All you need to do is to warm it up in a pan with a little bit of vegetable oil, then add the rest of the ingredients. Anyone could do it, especially those of you that are just getting started in the kitchen!
The three main types of curry paste
In case you bought or used curry paste before, you might’ve noticed that there are 3 main types of curry paste given by their color (and types of chilies used):
- red curry (spiciest, best with beef) – the most popular type of curry paste. It’s made with red chili peppers and it’s usually combined with coconut milk;
- green curry (most flavorful, best with fish) – made with green chili peppers as well as cilantro, kaffir lime and basil, so there’s a lot of green going on.
- yellow curry (mildest, best with chicken) – if you’re looking for a milder curry, this one’s for you. Its yellow color is given by the addition of turmeric into the combo.
TIP: In case you really cannot find curry paste at the market or online (although it’s a bit hard to believe), then you can replace it with curry powder.
How much curry paste should I use?
A good curry paste is usually VERY intense. If you’re making a curry, you can start by using one tablespoon of curry paste for two portions, then adjust to taste as you go.
How to cook with curry paste
Now that you know the basics about curry paste, let’s see which are the main ways and ideas for using curry paste in the kitchen:
- in… curries – d’uh! No curry dish is a curry unless you add curry paste, so the two are basically nothing without the other. The method is pretty much the same regardless if you’re making a fish or veggie curry or if you’re using red, yellow or green paste. Cook the curry paste in a pan with oil for a bit (this will enhance all those flavors), then add your protein of choice (meat, tofu, veggies, chickpeas, lentils, etc). After the protein is coated with the yummy paste, it’s time to add the liquid – usually coconut milk, but you can also use stock. Let simmer and that’s about it!
- soups – a soup with a little bit of curry paste is… something else!
- marinades – yes, curry paste is flavorful enough to marinate meat or tofu. You just need to mix it with some veggie oil and maybe some lemon or lime juice as well. Brush your protein with the mixture and let marinate!
- dressings – because salads don’t have to be boring, right? In case you’re in the mood for a spicy dressing, a little bit of curry paste is the way to go. Just mix it with some vegan yogurt and vinegar and pour it over your salad.
- dip – mix curry paste with vegan yogurt and use it as a dipping sauce for veggies.
And the list can go on and on! But I decided to stop with the practical information – let me offer you some real inspiration instead and a chance to put all the information above to the test!
Below you’ll find my selection of 10 recipes with curry paste. From a curry soup to LOTS of types of curries with various veggies or tofu, I’m absolutely convinced you’ll find something to love down below.
All of them are super yummy and easy to make, so no worries about that. Just click on the buttons (or titles), pick your favorite recipe, and head over to the kitchen.
Happy cooking! 🙂
How to Cook with Curry Paste | Tips, Methods, Recipes
Are you curious to find out everything you need to know about how to cook with curry paste, this magical ingredient full of spices? This article is your answer! You also get 10 inspiring recipes with curry paste!
If you’re bored of basic soups, here’s an incredible recipe to try for a change: vegan coconut curry chick’n soup! Super healthy and bursting with incredible flavors!
What could be more comforting than a curry? Literally nothing! Here's how to make an incredible vegan pumpkin curry that will soothe your soul. Super flavorful!
You may already know about my love for patties and fritters, but these vegan corn fritters are truly something special! Try them the next time you're craving a quick and easy lunch and you won't regret it!
Craving something comforting, but also exotic and special? Here's how I make the most flavorful and delicious vegan green curry!
If you're looking for a fresh, hot and spicy pasta dish, then this coconut curry and spinach pasta is just perfect! This recipe is for all spicy food lovers out there!
This yummy yellow curry is full of colorful veggies (eggplants, beans, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers) and amazing flavors. Give it a try!
Recipe created by Cook Click 'n Devour.
An exotic combination of tofu and veggies, all simmered in a curry sauce = the ultimate Thai comfort dish!
Recipe created by Cookie and Kate.
Are you up for a challenge? This incredible recipe will teach you how to make your own red curry paste at home, step-by-step, with simple ingredients for maximum effect!
Recipe created by Roguish Recipe Kitchen.
Looking for something more... unconventional? Try this pineapple-tofu combo with lots of curry flavor for a change. You'll surely be impressed!
Recipe created by Rabbit & Wolves.
Chickpea + cauliflower = love! And if you combine them with a creamy curry sauce, you'll get straight to heaven and back. Give it a try!
Recipe created by The Yummy Bowl.
