Thai Yellow Chicken Curry

Alright, let's get cooking! Here's my go-to recipe for a vibrant and fragrant Thai Yellow Chicken Curry. This is a classic for a reason, packed with flavor and customizable to your spice preference.

Thai Yellow Chicken Curry (Gaeng Kari Gai)

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients:

• Protein:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, peeled and minced
  • 1-2 red bell peppers, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
  • 1/2 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
• Curry Paste:
  • 2-3 tablespoons yellow curry paste (adjust to your spice preference – Mae Ploy is a popular brand)
• Liquids:
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth or stock
• Flavorings:
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for extra color)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• Finishing Touches:
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
• Oil:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

2. Bloom the Curry Paste: Add the yellow curry paste to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This will release the fragrant oils and enhance the flavor of the curry. If the paste starts to stick, add a splash of the chicken broth.

3. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Add the potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers and stir to combine.

4. Simmer the Curry: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Add the fish sauce, brown sugar, turmeric powder (if using), salt, and white pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more fish sauce for saltiness, brown sugar for sweetness, or curry paste for spice.

6. Serve: Ladle the yellow chicken curry over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Chef's Notes & Tips:

• Spice Level: Yellow curry paste can vary in spiciness. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste. If you prefer a milder curry, you can use less paste or add a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut cream at the end to temper the heat.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Other great additions include bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, or green beans.
• Sweetness: Thai curries often have a subtle sweetness. Adjust the brown sugar to your preference. You can also use palm sugar for a more authentic flavor.
• Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are preferred because they stay moist and tender during the longer cooking time. You can also use chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it.
• Coconut Milk Quality: Use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and richness.
• Leftovers: Yellow chicken curry tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious and authentic Thai Yellow Chicken Curry! Let me know if you have any questions. Bon appétit!