Panang Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Panang Curry is just what you need. It’s packed with rich flavors and comforting warmth, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends at your next gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using just one pan to create a delicious meal means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

This Panang Curry is not only tasty, but it’s also versatile and can easily adapt to suit your preferences. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this dish easy to whip up, making it a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess equals more relaxation. You’ll only need one pan to create this delightful dish.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful profile, even picky eaters will enjoy this curry!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand—this recipe is flexible!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead of time for an easy dinner that can be reheated whenever you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together beautifully to create the delightful flavors of Panang curry. Here’s what you need:

• 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red, orange, or yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small bunch scallions, light and dark green parts, sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-oz) can unsweetened coconut milk (see note)
• 2½ tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2½ tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1¼ pounds chicken breast or tenderloins, thinly sliced into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon lime juice plus lime wedges for serving (you’ll need 2 limes)
• ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro
• ⅓ cup dry roasted peanuts, finely chopped

Variations

One of the best things about this Panang Curry is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have in your pantry or personal taste.

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some sliced chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Try different nuts: Swap out peanuts for cashews or almonds for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Panang Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook until softened and slightly browned—about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, toss in the scallions and let them soften too; this should take about another minute. Finally, add your minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it brown as we want that lovely garlic flavor without bitterness.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the coconut milk along with the Thai red curry paste, fish sauce, and dark brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to simmer. Let it cook uncovered until slightly thickened—around two minutes will do!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the thinly sliced chicken into your simmering sauce. Stir occasionally so that each piece cooks evenly without boiling too vigorously. We want that chicken tender! This usually takes about five to eight minutes depending on thickness. Once cooked through, stir in lime juice, cilantro, and peanuts. Give it a taste; if you’d like more brightness, feel free to add more lime juice!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Serve your delicious Panang Curry over jasmine rice for that classic touch. Garnish with lime wedges for an extra zing! Enjoy every comforting bite with family or friends—this is sure to be a hit around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Panang Curry

Making Panang curry is a delightful journey, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and texture!

• Choose the right curry paste: Not all Thai red curry pastes are created equal. Look for one that’s rich in spices and doesn’t contain artificial preservatives. This will enhance the authenticity of your curry.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less curry paste and gradually add more to taste. This way, you can control the heat and ensure everyone at your table enjoys it.
• Let it simmer gently: Cooking the chicken over low heat allows it to stay tender and juicy. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the chicken from becoming tough.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. They’ll soak up the delicious sauce!
• Fresh herbs make a difference: Using fresh cilantro at the end brightens up the dish. You can also sprinkle some Thai basil if you have it on hand for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Panang Curry

Presentation makes all the difference when serving your Panang curry! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkling additional chopped peanuts on top adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the curry.
• Fresh cilantro leaves: A few whole leaves scattered on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the aroma of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Jasmine rice: This fragrant rice is a classic pairing, soaking up all those delicious curry flavors while providing a fluffy base for your meal.
• Cucumber salad: A simple salad made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt provides a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate while balancing out the richness of the curry.
• Thai spring rolls: These fresh rolls filled with veggies or shrimp (if desired) offer a crunchy side that pairs nicely with saucy dishes like Panang curry.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Panang curry! Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panang curry is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, comforting dish throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover Panang curry to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the curry has cooled down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the curry to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on low heat.
• Microwaving is also an option; just make sure to cover the dish and stir halfway through heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Panang Curry.

What is Panang Curry?

Panang Curry is a rich and creamy Thai dish made with coconut milk and red curry paste. It’s known for its balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that create a comforting meal.

Can I use other proteins in Panang Curry?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken, you can substitute with tofu or shrimp for a delicious variation. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Panang Curry vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Panang Curry, replace chicken with firm tofu or your favorite vegetables. Use soy sauce in place of fish sauce for added flavor without animal products.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Panang curry! It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Thailand into your home with minimal effort. The combination of creamy coconut milk and bold spices makes it special, not just for dinner but also as meal prep for busy days ahead. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!