All the ingredients are thinly sliced, coated in a lime-chipotle marinade, roasted and then broiled until charred. Serve with tortillas and your desired toppings (guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream). This homemade paste is a game-changer for any Thai curry recipe.
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Spicy foods contain capsaicin, which is responsible for the heat sensation and can cause irritation in the digestive tract. People who are sensitive to spicy food may experience discomfort such as heartburn, indigestion, or even diarrhea when eating Panang curry. The good news is that panang curry contains several anti-inflammatory ingredients that can help alleviate chronic inflammation in the body.
Slow-Cooker Boneless Chicken Breasts
In some Thai restaurants, chefs will use many fresh chili peppers to get the desired spiciness and color of the red curry. Once you’ve prepared the sauce and cut up the chicken into cubes, all you need to do is combine the ingredients. As you can tell, the process is quite simple, and the flavor lies in the combination of these ingredients. In many Panang curry recipes, veggies such as peppers and tomatoes are added.
The type of coconut milk you use can significantly impact the texture and richness of your curry. For a truly authentic and satisfying curry, opt for full-fat coconut milk, preferably from a can. Lite coconut milk, while an option for those watching fat intake, won’t provide the same creamy consistency or depth of flavor that makes Thai curries so luscious. Panang curry is all about balance – the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors that come together to create a harmonious whole. The combination of peanuts, coconut milk, and spices creates a rich, creamy texture that’s both soothing and invigorating. Panang curry has a lot of similarities to Thai red curry but includes peanuts or peanut butter and coconut milk as main ingredients.
Ready in: 1 hour 15 minutes
Green curry paste or a homemade blend are your only strong options here. The coconut milk amplifies every flavor note, so weak substitutes taste noticeably thin. Pantry blends will give you a spiced coconut soup, not a curry.
Green Thai Mango Salad (Sweet & Tangy)
Achieving authentic flavor in your Thai curry recipe simple largely comes down to a few key elements. Opt for reputable brands known for using fresh ingredients. Second, don’t skip the step of “blooming” the paste in oil; this process is crucial for releasing its aromatic compounds and developing its depth of flavor. Use palm sugar (or brown sugar as a substitute), fish sauce, and fresh lime juice, and adjust them to your taste. Fresh garnishes like cilantro and Thai basil also play a significant role in the overall fresh, vibrant taste.
- Panang curry originates from Central Thailand and is known for its rich, creamy texture and subtle sweet‑spicy flavor.
- Panang Curry beef is a favorite among meat lovers because the richness of beef pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- First, let’s break down the ingredients of typical panang curry.
- The curry paste used in Panang Curry is also milder than other curry pastes, with a focus on sweet and nutty flavors rather than intense spiciness.
- All these nutrients are essential for maintaining optimal health.
The final flourish of garnishes can significantly enhance the taste and presentation of your Thai curry. Think of them as the exclamation points to your flavor symphony. These days, more people are choosing gluten-free products to improve their overall well-being despite not having any gluten-related health conditions.
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If it thickens after refrigeration, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it. Rice noodles have a slightly different texture and taste than spaghetti noodles used in Italian cooking. They are also a bit sticker and lend themselves well to a thicker curry like panang.

Flavor Profile Comparison Table
Once the oil is heated, add in your curry mixture and saute for a minute or two. Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs in Instant Pot Thai panang curry, but breast is leaner, so it can dry out faster under pressure. For the best Instant Pot panang curry with chicken breast, cut the breast into larger, even chunks, use the shortest cook time that’s safe for your recipe, and avoid extended Keep Warm. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Taste, adjust, and repeat until you achieve that perfect balance. This iterative seasoning process is fundamental to any successful Thai curry recipe simple. At Exotic Food Thailand, we offer a wide variety of authentic Thai ingredients and other kinds of cooking pastes. Try our products and discover the vibrant world of Thai cuisine from the comfort of your home.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Variations for Your Simple Thai Curry

Store-bought pastes are a great time-saver for when you need to whip up a tasty curry in a short amount of time. My favorite brands are Mae Ploy and Maesri, so make sure to get one of those at your next visit to an Asian grocery store. If using tofu, it’s best to cook it separately until browned on all sides, which ensures the best flavor and texture.
Panang curry is generally milder and a bit sweeter than most Thai curries like green or red curry. It has a thick consistency and the curry paste often includes peanuts, which is not common for Thai curries. Panang curry paste typically includes dried red chilies, galangal, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, coriander seeds, cumin, and sometimes peanuts.
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. The mortar and pestle version tastes noticeably more aromatic. Store either version in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a freezer bag. The origins of Panang Curry are closely tied to the cultural exchange between Thailand and Malaysia.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Panang Curry Recipe
Curry powder alone falls short because it lacks the wet aromatics and shrimp paste. Mixing it with chili flakes, garlic, fish sauce, and lime juice bridges some of the gap. Toast them in oil for 30 seconds maximum, then immediately add your coconut milk or broth. Give them minutes of simmering to mellow the raw tomato flavor. Dry spice blends concentrate as liquid reduces, so what tastes mild at first gets significantly hotter over time.
How to Make Panang Chicken Curry at home
It represents the harmony of Thai cooking, where sweet, salty, sour, and spicy notes come best app for intermittent fasting together in balance. A single serving of Panang Curry with chicken and rice can average around 450 to 550 calories, depending on portion size and the type of protein you use. The curry provides a solid balance of macronutrients, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner. Chicken is packed with lean protein that supports muscle health and helps you feel full longer.