Authentic Thai Pork Panang Curry: A Step-by-Step Guide

Indulge your senses in the rich, fragrant depths of authentic Thai Pork Panang Curry. This isn't your average takeout; we're diving deep into a culinary journey, exploring the vibrant tapestry of flavors that make this dish a Thai classic. From the subtle sweetness of coconut milk to the fiery kick of chilies, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of taste that will transport you straight to the bustling street food markets of Thailand. The creamy, intensely flavorful sauce clings beautifully to tender pork, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Forget the jarred sauces; we're using fresh, high-quality ingredients to unlock the true potential of this remarkable curry.

This recipe guides you through every step, ensuring you achieve a Panang Curry as delicious as any you've ever tasted. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, our detailed instructions and helpful tips will equip you to create this masterpiece in your own home. Prepare to be amazed as you unlock the secrets of authentic Thai cooking and embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other. Let's begin!

Tools Needed

  • Pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients

  • Pork (outer part)
  • Red chili peppers
  • Kaffir lime leaves
  • Panang curry paste
  • Palm sugar or coconut sugar
  • Fish sauce
  • Amphawa coconut milk (100% pure)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Preparing the Ingredients

  • Thinly slice red chili peppers, removing seeds and soaking them in water to soften.
  • Wash and thinly slice kaffir lime leaves.
  • Slice pork against the grain into thin (1-2mm) slices.
Thinly slice red chili peppers, removing seeds and soaking them in water to soften.Wash and thinly slice kaffir lime leaves.Slice pork against the grain into thin (1-2mm) slices.
Preparing the Ingredients

Step 2. Building the Curry Base and Sauce

  • In a pan, stir-fry Amphawa coconut milk over medium heat until it thickens and oil separates.
  • Add panang curry paste and stir-fry until fragrant and the oil separates again.
  • Gradually add more coconut milk, stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
In a pan, stir-fry Amphawa coconut milk over medium heat until it thickens and oil separates.Add panang curry paste and stir-fry until fragrant and the oil separates again. Gradually add more coconut milk, stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Building the Curry Base and Sauce

Step 3. Cooking the Pork and Seasoning

  • Add the sliced pork and stir-fry until it's about 80% cooked.
  • Season with palm sugar or coconut sugar and fish sauce to taste. Add water if needed to adjust consistency.
Add the sliced pork and stir-fry until it's about 80% cooked.Season with palm sugar or coconut sugar and fish sauce to taste. Add water if needed to adjust consistency.
Cooking the Pork and Seasoning

Step 4. Finishing and Serving

  • Stir in the soaked chili peppers and sliced kaffir lime leaves.
  • Simmer until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  • Serve hot.
Stir in the soaked chili peppers and sliced kaffir lime leaves.Simmer until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Serve hot.
Finishing and Serving

Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe

Tips

  • Soaking the chilies softens them and enhances their color.
  • Slicing pork against the grain prevents it from becoming tough.
  • Using coconut milk instead of oil for frying the curry paste adds richness and aroma.
  • Adjust the amount of curry paste to control the spiciness.
  • Add fish sauce gradually, as the saltiness of the curry paste may vary.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 450-550
  • Fat: 35-45g
  • Carbs: 15-25g
  • Protein: 25-35g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the pork?

Yes! Chicken, beef, or even tofu work well. Adjust cooking time as needed for different proteins.

2. What if I don't have all the spices?

Don't worry! You can often find Panang curry paste at Asian grocery stores. It contains most of the necessary spices pre-mixed.

3. How can I make it less spicy?

Remove some or all of the chili flakes from the paste, or use less paste overall. You can also add a splash of coconut milk at the end to mellow the heat.


Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the art of creating an authentic Thai Pork Panang Curry. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors and the satisfying sense of accomplishment that comes with making this delicious dish from scratch. Now, gather your friends and family and savor the fruits of your culinary labor!