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Vegan Massaman Curry Paste Recipe

Massaman curry paste in a small bowl.

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This easy vegan Massaman curry paste recipe is an oil-free fusion of dry spices with Indian roots, plus Thai-inspired fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 5 dried red chilies (see notes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon white peppercorns (3/4 tsp. ground white pepper)
  • 2 teaspoons cardamom seeds (1 teaspoon ground)
  • 6 whole cloves (1/3 teaspoon ground)
  • 2 tablespoons coriander seeds (2 1/2 tablespoons ground)
  • 2 teaspoon cumin seeds (2 1/2 teaspoons ground)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (1 teaspoon ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
  • 1/4 cup chopped garlic
  • 1/4 cup chopped ginger
  • 2 lemongrass sticks, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped shallots (you can also use red onion)
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (coriander) leaves and stems
  • 2 teaspoon white miso paste

Instructions

  1. Toast the whole spices in a small pan over medium heat. Stir them constantly and remove them from the heat so they don't get too brown. Toss the spices as they toast for 1-2 minutes until they release their aroma.
  2. Add the toasted spices to a spice grinder and break them down until they are fine.
  3. If your spice grinder is large enough, add the red of the ingredients and blend until smooth. If not, transfer the spices and add the other ingredients to a blender or food processor to combine.
  4. Makes 1 cup.

Notes

  • I used dried Thai red chilies, but you can also use tiny bird's hotter eye chilies, so use 5. If you substitute with dried red chili flakes, start with 1 tablespoon, and add more depending on how spicy you like.
  • Massaman curry paste can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. Alternatively, it can be frozen for up to six months. Freeze it in small portions or an ice cube tray and add it directly to curry sauces.
  • Use 2-3 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste to make Massaman curry. This popular Thai dish features potatoes, veggies, and peanuts in a creamy curry sauce as a vegan version. However, it can flavor other dishes like soups, stir-fries, and marinades.

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