Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this Spicy Catfish and Cha-om Mushroom Curry, a dish that perfectly balances the richness of catfish with the subtle bitterness of cha-om (a unique Thai herb). This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional Thai curries, showcasing the fragrant interplay of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, all simmered to perfection in a creamy coconut milk base. The addition of earthy mushrooms adds another layer of depth, creating a complex and satisfying culinary experience. Imagine tender, succulent catfish flakes bathed in a fragrant, slightly spicy sauce, served alongside fluffy jasmine rice.
This irresistible curry is easier to make than you might think! Ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey to Thailand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this unforgettable Spicy Catfish and Cha-om Mushroom Curry.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and Pestle
- Pan
- Pot
Ingredients
- Shallots: 3
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Red Chili Peppers: 20
- Lemongrass: 2 stalks
- Catfish: 500 grams
- Straw Mushrooms: 250 grams
- White Meiji Mushrooms: null
- Cha-om (Acacia Pennata): 50 grams
- Betel Leaves: 1 gram
- Dried Basil: null
- Green/Red Chili Peppers: null
- Fish Sauce: 2 spatulas (or 4 spoons)
- Seasoning Powder: 1 teaspoon
- MSG: optional
- Water: 1 liter
- Sugar: optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Curry Base
- shallots, garlic, chili peppers, and lemongrass.
- Roast or stir-fry the curry paste until fragrant in a pan. Add water (1 liter).
- Add fish sauce (2 spatulas/4 spoons), seasoning powder (1 tsp), and optional MSG.
Step 2. Cook the Catfish and Mushrooms
- Bring to a boil, then add the catfish. Do not stir immediately.
- Once the catfish is partially cooked, add straw mushrooms (250g) and optional Meiji mushrooms.
- Add cha-om (50g), betel leaves (1g), dried basil, and chili peppers. Simmer until the fish is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Adjust seasoning with sugar if desired. If you prefer, omit fish sauce.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice.
Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe
Tips
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add more or less of any ingredient to suit your preference.
- One plate of rice is definitely not enough! Prepare a large pot of rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the catfish with another type of fish?
Yes! Firm white fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed, depending on the fish's thickness.
2. Where can I find Cha-om?
Cha-om (Acacia pennata) is often found in Asian grocery stores, especially those specializing in Thai ingredients. If unavailable, you can omit it, or substitute with spinach or other similar leafy greens, though the flavor will be different.
This Spicy Catfish and Cha-om Mushroom Curry is a testament to the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of Thailand. With its perfect balance of spice, herbs, and creamy coconut milk, it's a dish guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal, and don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique version!