Gaeng Massaman Recipe

Mak Erot

4 min read

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Apr 03, 2025

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Authentic Massaman Curry: A Step-by-Step Guide

Massaman curry, a beloved Thai dish, is renowned for its rich, complex flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. This recipe guides you through creating an authentic Massaman curry at home, focusing on the key ingredients and techniques that make it truly special. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Understanding the Magic of Massaman

What sets Massaman curry apart? It's the unique blend of spices, the slow cooking process, and the surprising addition of peanuts and potatoes that create its signature creamy, savory profile. Forget those quick curry pastes; this recipe emphasizes building flavor from scratch, resulting in a far more rewarding experience.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor:

• Spices: Don't skimp on the spices! This is where the magic happens. You'll need: cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cardamom pods (green and black), cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, turmeric powder, and chili powder (adjust to your spice preference). Toasting the whole spices before grinding enhances their aroma and flavor significantly.

• Meat: Traditionally, beef is used, but lamb or chicken also work wonderfully. Choose a cut that benefits from slow cooking, like beef chuck or lamb shank.

• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is essential for achieving the creamy texture. Use two cans – one for the initial cooking and another for richness later.

• Peanuts: Roasted peanuts add a delightful nutty crunch and creamy texture.

• Potatoes: Potatoes are a surprising but essential component, contributing to the curry's heartiness.

Step-by-Step Massaman Curry Recipe:

Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 2-3 hours (or longer for incredibly tender meat)

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 inches ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp each of cumin seeds, coriander seeds
• 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 4 black cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6 cloves
• 2 star anise
• 2 tbsp turmeric powder
• 1-2 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 cans (400ml each) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Toast the Spices: Heat a dry pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then grind into a powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

2. Brown the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Bloom the Spice Blend: Add the ground spice mixture (cumin, coriander, etc.) and turmeric powder to the pot. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. Add the chili powder.

5. Simmer the Curry: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in one can of coconut milk and the beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. Stir occasionally.

6. Add Potatoes and Remaining Coconut Milk: After 2 hours, add the potatoes and the remaining can of coconut milk. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

7. Stir in Peanuts: Stir in the roasted peanuts during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

8. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips for the Best Massaman Curry:

• Slow Cooking is Key: The longer you cook the Massaman, the richer and more flavorful it becomes. Consider using a slow cooker for an even more tender result.

• Adjust the Spices: Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference.

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will make a significant difference in the overall taste.

This authentic Massaman curry recipe provides a delicious and aromatic experience. Enjoy the journey of creating this flavorful masterpiece! Remember to share your culinary creations using #MassamanCurry #ThaiFood #HomemadeCurry. Happy cooking!