Fragrant Pumpkin Curry with Pork Ribs: Easy Thai Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible warmth of our Fragrant Pumpkin Curry with Pork Ribs, a delightful twist on a classic Thai dish. This recipe perfectly balances the sweetness of pumpkin with the savory richness of tender pork ribs, all enveloped in a fragrant coconut milk-based curry. The aromatic blend of spices, including ginger, garlic, lemongrass, and chilies, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Imagine tender, fall-apart pork ribs infused with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, all nestled in a creamy, fragrant curry.

This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. We've carefully outlined each step, ensuring a smooth cooking experience even for beginner cooks. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delicious pumpkin curry together.

Tools Needed

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Pot
  • Spatula/Spoon

Ingredients

  • Pork ribs (bones): 400 grams
  • Pumpkin: 250 grams
  • Spicy curry paste: 60 grams
  • Basil leaves: 25 grams
  • Kaffir lime leaves: 5
  • Water: 1.3 liters
  • Chili (red chili)
  • Pork seasoning powder
  • Fish sauce: 1.5 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon
  • Sugar (palm sugar): 0.5 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Build Flavor Base

  • Cut the pork ribs into strips, ensuring there's a gap between each rib for easier cooking.
  • Peel, deseed, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Heat soybean oil in a pot. Add the curry paste and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant and slightly thickened.
  • Add the pork ribs and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides.
Cut the pork ribs into strips, ensuring there's a gap between each rib for easier cooking.Prepare the pumpkin: Peel, deseed, and cut into bite-sized pieces.Heat soybean oil in a pot. Add the curry paste and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant and slightly thickened.Add the pork ribs and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides.
Prepare Ingredients & Build Flavor Base
  • Add kaffir lime leaves to remove fishy smell.
Add kaffir lime leaves to remove fishy smell.
Prepare Ingredients & Build Flavor Base

Step 2. Simmer Pork Ribs & Pumpkin

  • Pour in 1.3 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes (or longer for extra tender ribs).
  • Add the pumpkin and continue to simmer until tender (color changes to a golden hue).
Pour in 1.3 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes (or longer for extra tender ribs).Add the pumpkin and continue to simmer until tender (color changes to a golden hue).
Simmer Pork Ribs & Pumpkin

Step 3. Season and Add Aromatics

  • Season with palm sugar, pork seasoning powder, and fish sauce. Stir to combine and let the sugar melt.
  • Increase heat to high. Add the remaining kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and bell peppers. Cook until heated through.
Season with palm sugar, pork seasoning powder, and fish sauce. Stir to combine and let the sugar melt.Increase heat to high. Add the remaining kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and bell peppers. Cook until heated through.
Season and Add Aromatics

Step 4. Finish & Garnish

  • Stir in galangal leaves and basil leaves. Continue cooking until fragrant and the curry reaches desired consistency.
Stir in galangal leaves and basil leaves. Continue cooking until fragrant and the curry reaches desired consistency.
Finish & Garnish

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

Tips

  • Adjust the amount of curry paste to your preferred spice level.
  • Use medium heat while simmering to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Check the tenderness of the ribs by scooping some out and tasting.
  • For a thicker curry, reduce the liquid by increasing the heat at the end.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat instead of pork ribs?

Yes! Chicken thighs, beef cubes, or even tofu would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the protein's thickness.

2. What can I do if my curry is too thick or too thin?

For a thinner curry, add more coconut milk or broth. For a thicker curry, simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.

3. Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Yes! This curry tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.


This Fragrant Pumpkin Curry with Pork Ribs is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of Thailand in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients and embark on this flavorful culinary adventure!