Red curry paste is a versatile Thai curry paste made primarily with dried red chiles and aromatic herbs and spices.
Flavor and ingredients
Common ingredients include dried red chiles, lemongrass, galangal, makrut lime, garlic, shallot, coriander, cumin and shrimp paste. The dried chiles provide its red color and a deep, rounded heat.
How it is used
The paste is cooked briefly in coconut cream or oil before liquid and other ingredients are added. It is used in coconut curries, soups, stir-fries, marinades and sauces with meat, seafood, tofu or vegetables. Red curry paste is generally more earthy and chile-forward than green curry paste, while remaining highly adaptable.
Storage
Refrigerate opened curry paste in a clean, airtight container and follow the manufacturer’s use-by guidance. For longer storage, freeze small portions so you can thaw only what you need.