Green Curry — Thailand's Signature Dish

Green Curry (Kaeng Khiao Wan) is not just a curry, it's a symbol of Thai cuisine that has conquered the world with its unique combination of spiciness, aroma, and creaminess. This famous green curry with coconut milk, Thai basil, and green curry paste is a must-try dish for anyone who wants to experience authentic Thai cuisine. In this article, we'll tell you about the history of Green Curry, its ingredients, varieties, and where to try it best in Thailand.

What is Green Curry?

Green Curry (Kaeng Khiao Wan) is a traditional Thai curry, whose name translates as "sweet green curry". The dish consists of green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken or other proteins, and Thai basil. The green curry paste is made from green chili peppers, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and other spices, giving the dish a unique aroma and spiciness.

Green Curry is not just food, it's an experience. Every spoonful of this curry is an explosion of flavors: the heat of chili peppers, the creaminess of coconut milk, the aroma of basil, and the tenderness of meat create an unforgettable combination.

History of Green Curry

Green Curry has deep roots in Thai culinary tradition and is one of the most popular dishes in Thai cuisine. The dish was created in central Thailand and was originally prepared as a simple dish from local ingredients: green chili peppers, coconut milk, and meat. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Thailand and became one of the most recognizable dishes in Thai cuisine.

Today, Green Curry is a must-have item on the menu of any Thai restaurant and is especially popular among tourists who want to try authentic Thai cuisine.

Green Curry Ingredients

Classic Green Curry consists of the following main ingredients:

Main components:

• Green curry paste — paste made from green chili peppers, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and other spices
• Coconut milk — for creating a creamy broth
• Meat — chicken, beef, pork, or seafood
• Thai basil — for aroma and flavor
• Eggplants — small Thai eggplants

Curry paste:

• Green chili peppers — the base of the paste
• Lemongrass — for citrus aroma
• Galangal — for sharp flavor
• Kaffir lime — leaves and zest for aroma
• Garlic — for depth of flavor
• Coriander — roots for aroma
• Cumin — for spice

Garnishes:

• Thai basil
• Kaffir lime leaves
• Chili peppers — for additional heat

Green Curry Varieties

Green Curry with Chicken (Kaeng Khiao Wan Gai)

Classic version with chicken. This is the most popular version of curry, served in most restaurants.

Green Curry with Beef (Kaeng Khiao Wan Neua)

Version with beef instead of chicken. Beef is cooked longer and becomes more tender and flavorful.

Green Curry with Seafood (Kaeng Khiao Wan Talay)

Version with seafood: shrimp, squid, and mussels. Especially popular in coastal regions.

Green Curry with Tofu (Kaeng Khiao Wan Tofu)

Vegetarian version with tofu instead of meat. Coconut milk and curry paste create a rich flavor even without meat.

Where to Try the Best Green Curry

In Bangkok

In Bangkok, Green Curry is prepared especially well. Restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine offer this dish according to traditional recipes. Especially famous are restaurants in the Siam area and at Chatuchak Market.

Best places in Bangkok:

• Thai cuisine restaurants
• Food courts in shopping malls
• Street stalls (less common)
• Specialized curry restaurants

In Phuket

In Phuket, Green Curry is prepared with special attention to detail. Restaurants on the coast offer this dish with ocean views. Especially popular are restaurants in Patong area and Kata Beach.

In Krabi

In Krabi, Green Curry is a popular dish in restaurants and cafes. Especially popular are restaurants on the beach and in the city center.

In Restaurants

Restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine usually prepare Green Curry according to traditional recipes using fresh ingredients. Prices range from 150 to 400 baht depending on the establishment level.

How to Order Green Curry

When ordering Green Curry in Thailand, you can specify your preferences:

• "Mai phet" — not spicy (but this will change the character of the dish)
• "Phet nit noi" — a little spicy
• "Phet mak" — very spicy
• "Gai" — with chicken
• "Neua" — with beef
• "Talay" — with seafood

Green Curry Recipe (Basic)

Although it's better to try the original in Thailand, here's a basic recipe for home cooking:

Ingredients (for 2-3 servings):

• 300g chicken or other meat
• 400ml coconut milk
• 2 tbsp green curry paste
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp palm sugar
• 100g Thai eggplants
• Thai basil for serving

Preparation:

1. Fry the curry paste in a pot
2. Add coconut milk and bring to a boil
3. Add meat and cook until done
4. Add eggplants and cook for another 5 minutes
5. Add fish sauce and sugar
6. Serve with rice and Thai basil

Tips for Tourists

1. Try it in restaurants — Green Curry is best prepared in restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine. Street stalls rarely offer this dish.

2. Don't be afraid of spiciness — Green Curry can be spicy, but the spiciness can be adjusted. Ask for "phet nit noi" (a little spicy) if you're not used to spicy food.

3. Eat with rice — Green Curry is usually served with white rice, which helps soften the spiciness and complements the dish's flavor.

4. Try different varieties — Green Curry with chicken, beef, or seafood have different flavors. Try several varieties to find your favorite.

5. Use FoodSensAI — our bot will help you find the best places for Green Curry near you, taking into account your spiciness preferences.

6. Try it in different cities — Green Curry can differ depending on the region. In Bangkok, it's prepared with special attention to detail.

Conclusion

Green Curry is more than just a curry. It's a symbol of Thai cuisine that combines spiciness, aroma, and creaminess in one dish. From restaurants in Bangkok to restaurants in Phuket — Green Curry is prepared differently everywhere, but always with skill and love. Try this dish in different places, and you'll discover all the diversity of its flavors. Use FoodSensAI to find the best places for Green Curry near you!