HOW TO PREPARE GAENG DAENG.

“Gaeng Daeng” or Thai Red Curry is a popular and flavorful dish from Thailand. It is made from red curry paste, coconut milk, protein (like chicken, beef, or tofu), and various vegetables. The following is a basic recipe for Gaeng Daeng:

Ingredients:
2 tbsp Thai red curry paste (you can buy pre-made paste or make it from scratch)
400 ml (1 can) of coconut milk
300-500g of your choice of protein (chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp are popular choices)
1-2 tbsp fish sauce or to taste (use soy sauce for a vegetarian/vegan alternative)
1 tbsp sugar or palm sugar
1-2 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)
Thai basil leaves (optional)
Vegetables: like bell peppers, bamboo shoots, baby corn, zucchini, etc.
1 red Thai chili (optional for added heat)
2 tbsp cooking oil
1 cup of water or chicken stock (optional if you prefer a thinner consistency)
Instructions:
Preparation: If using meat, cut it into thin slices or bite-sized pieces. Prepare the vegetables by slicing or cutting them into bite-sized pieces as well.

Frying the Curry Paste: In a large pan or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the Thai red curry paste and sauté it until it becomes fragrant.

Adding Coconut Milk: Once the paste is aromatic, pour in about half of the coconut milk. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Protein Addition: Add your choice of protein to the pan. If you’re using meat, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

Seasoning: Add fish sauce (or soy sauce) and sugar. Stir to combine.

Veggies and Remaining Coconut Milk: Add the vegetables, the remaining coconut milk, and the water or chicken stock (if you’re using it). Simmer until the vegetables are cooked, but still have a bite to them.

Final Touches: Add torn kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, and red Thai chili (if using). Stir and let the curry simmer for another couple of minutes.

Serve: Once done, serve the Gaeng Daeng with steamed jasmine rice.

Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness and seasonings according to your preference. Making Thai Red Curry is relatively straightforward, and as you become more familiar with the recipe, you can experiment and add your own twist to it. Enjoy!