We had our first taste of Massaman curry (or Matsaman curry) during a trip to Thailand several years ago. The flavor completely took us by surprise and it has since become one of our favorite Thai dishes.
It’s use of cinnamon, star anise and cardamom gives it an unusual flavor that sets it apart from other Thai curries. Although, when ordering it outside of Thailand I find that the use of these spices tends to be muted – when the they should be playing a starring role.
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I chose beef for this recipe, but you can substitute with another protein such as chicken, duck or pork.
Here are some additional Asian inspired recipes that you might enjoy:
1 Tablespoon and 1 1/2 Teaspoons Tamarind Paste (use white vinegar if unable to locate)
1 Inch of Cinnamon Stick
Instructions
Heat the oil in a pan over medium high heat. Add the curry paste and cook until it becomes aromatic.
Add the remaining ingredients and cook until the beef is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has reduced.
Notes
*If using a prepared curry, start with half of the recommended amount in the recipe as they can contain additional salt
Homemade Massaman Curry Paste
Massaman Curry Paste
Ingredients
5 Dried Red Spur Chilies (without seeds) or 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
3 Tablespoons Garlic
2 Tablespoons Shallots
2 Tablespoons Lemongrass with outer leaves removed
1 Tablespoon Ginger
1 Teaspoon Kaffir Lime Rind (grated)
1 Tablespoon Cilantro, chopped
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Teaspoon Coriander Seeds
1/2 Teaspoon Cumin Seeds
1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
2 Cloves
1 Teaspoon Shrimp Paste substitute 1 tablespoon Chinese Oyster Sauce if unable to locate
Instructions
Place the garlic, shallot, ginger, lemongrass into a tinfoil pouch. Roast for approximately 35 minutes in a preheated 400 degree oven, until the ingredients are soft. Allow them to cool and then remove the skin from the garlic, ginger and shallot.
In the mean time, place the cumin, coriander and cloves in a pan over medium heat, stirring constantly until they become aromatic.
Place the dried chilies in a warm water and soak for 10 minutes.
Place all of the ingredients in a mortar and mash with a pestle until they are fully combined. You can alternately use a food processor.
The paste is ready to use. You can also store it in a glass container with a lid and some vegetable oil covering the surface and it will keep for up to 3 months.
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1 thought on “Beef Massaman Curry (Matsaman Curry)”
Looks delish!