Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this spicy Cha-om mushroom curry, a dish bursting with aromatic spices and the unique, slightly bitter taste of Cha-om (Acacia pennata) leaves. This recipe offers a delicious vegetarian twist on a classic Thai curry, showcasing the earthy richness of mushrooms perfectly complemented by the fresh, herbaceous Cha-om. Imagine tender mushrooms simmered in a fragrant coconut milk broth, infused with lemongrass, galangal, and chilies – a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. The subtle bitterness of the Cha-om provides a delightful counterpoint to the creamy coconut and spicy chilies, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
This incredibly flavorful and relatively simple curry is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's delve into the step-by-step process and create this stunning Cha-om mushroom curry together.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Cooking pot
Ingredients
- Straw mushrooms
- Enoki mushrooms
- Log mushrooms
- Golden needle mushrooms
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Lemongrass: chopped
- Red chili peppers: 2 stalks
- Green chili peppers: 2 stalks
- Dried chili peppers
- Chinese garlic: 3 cloves
- Shallots: 5, sliced
- Water: 700 ml
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon + 1 ladle of boiled fish sauce
- Cha-om leaves
- Chili peppers (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Curry Paste
- Cut straw, log, and enoki mushrooms into pieces as desired. Separate golden needle mushrooms into clusters.
- In a mortar and pestle, pound together salt, chopped lemongrass, red and green chili peppers, dried chili peppers (add as much as you like), 3 cloves of Chinese garlic, and 5 sliced shallots.
- Roast the pounded mixture over low heat until cooked and fragrant.
Step 2. Cook the Curry
- Add 700 ml of water to the curry paste, bring to a boil, then add seasoning powder, fish sauce, and mix well.
- Add enoki mushrooms first and let them deflate. Then add straw and log mushrooms. Boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Add golden needle mushrooms and press them down. Boil for a little longer.
Step 3. Add Cha-om and Finish
- Add chili peppers and cha-om leaves to taste.
Step 4. Serve
- Mix everything together and serve hot with steamed rice.
Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe
Tips
- Pound the ingredients roughly.
- Add as much chili as you like for desired spiciness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 20-25g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute Cha-om leaves if I can't find them?
Yes! You can try using spinach or other leafy greens like Thai basil as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different. The key is to use a similar volume of tender leaves.
2. How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chilies used. Start with fewer chilies and add more to taste, or use milder chilies like bird's eye chilies instead of Thai chilies for a less intense flavor.
This Spicy Cha-om Mushroom Curry is a testament to the vibrant and complex flavors of Thai cuisine. We hope you enjoyed the journey of creating this delicious and satisfying dish. Now, gather your friends and family and savor the exquisite results of your culinary adventure!