Craving a vibrant and flavourful Thai-inspired dish? Look no further than this incredibly easy Sour Papaya Curry with Shrimp! This recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory notes, all in one delicious bowl. The slightly tart green papaya provides a refreshing crunch, perfectly complemented by the succulent shrimp and aromatic curry paste. This dish is surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a vibrant weekend lunch. Forget complicated takeout – you can easily recreate this authentic taste at home.
The unique tang of the papaya is the star of the show, creating a truly unforgettable curry experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease. Ready to create this delicious and refreshing curry? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and Pestle
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- Papaya
- Shrimp
- Shallots
- Galangal
- Steamed Tuna (or boiled fish)
- Seasoning Powder (chicken or pork)
- Tamarind Juice
- Salt
- Fish Sauce
- Palm Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Curry Paste
- Peel and thinly slice the papaya.
- Pound the shallots, galangal, and other curry paste ingredients in a mortar and pestle. (Add ingredients gradually)
- Add steamed tuna (or substitute with boiled fish) and pound with the curry paste.
- Dissolve the curry paste in boiling water to create a smooth paste.
Step 2. Simmer the Curry
- Heat the curry paste mixture and bring to a boil.
- Add the sliced papaya and simmer until slightly softened but not mushy.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Add seasoning powder, tamarind juice, salt, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Adjust to your taste preference.
Step 4. Cook the Shrimp
- Add the cleaned shrimp and cook until done.
Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe
Tips
- Choose a papaya that is fully grown but not overripe for the best sweetness.
- Cutting shallots into small pieces makes pounding easier.
- Adjust the amount of tamarind juice to achieve your desired level of sourness.
- Add shrimp at the very end to prevent overcooking and maintain its tenderness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp?
Yes! Chicken, tofu, or even firm fish work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have green papaya?
Unfortunately, green papaya is key to the dish's unique texture and flavor. Other fruits won't replicate it perfectly. You could try using a very firm, unripe mango as a less-than-ideal substitute.
3. How can I adjust the spiciness?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili paste you use. Start with less and add more to your taste preference. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.
This Sour Papaya and Shrimp Curry is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients creating an explosion of flavor. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and satisfying textures of this easy-to-make Thai delight. We hope you’ll add this delicious recipe to your regular cooking repertoire!