Chicken Massaman Curry Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons curry paste
• 1 (3/4 inch thick) slice ginger, minced
• 1 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast meat - cubed
• cup peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 3 cups peeled, cubed potatoes
• 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Directions

1. Gather all the ingredients together before starting.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, stir in the curry paste and minced ginger. Cook and stir for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the cubed chicken to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the chicken turns white on the outside.
5. Mix in the peanut butter, brown sugar, fish sauce, and tamarind paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Add the cubed potatoes and coconut milk to the pan. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
8. After 20 minutes, stir in the fresh lime juice and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Once everything is well-combined and the dish has thickened slightly, its ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	690
Total Fat	41g
Saturated Fat	22g
Cholesterol	73mg
Sodium	1221mg
Total Carbohydrate	47g
Dietary Fiber	6g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	38g
Vitamin C	28mg
Calcium	75mg
Iron	6mg
Potassium	1140mg

Chicken Massaman Curry is a comforting and aromatic dish that embodies the fusion of flavors characteristic of Thai cuisine. The curry is rich in spices, with its signature creamy texture thanks to coconut milk. Known for its slightly sweet and savory taste, Massaman curry blends flavors of curry paste, tamarind, peanut butter, and lime, creating a mouthwatering experience.

Origin of Massaman Curry

The origins of Massaman curry can be traced back to Southern Thailand, though it has strong roots in Persian and Indian culinary traditions. "Massaman" itself is thought to be derived from the word "Muslim," reflecting the influence of Muslim traders in the region. This curry became popular due to the combination of rich spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which were introduced by Persian and Arab merchants. Over time, these influences merged with local Thai ingredients to create the iconic dish we know today.

Regional Variations

In Thailand, Massaman curry is more commonly associated with the southern region, especially in cities like Phuket and Krabi, where it is a staple in both street food markets and restaurants. In the more traditional recipes, Massaman curry often includes ingredients such as roasted peanuts, potatoes, and sometimes pineapple or tamarind, giving it a unique sweet-sour profile that sets it apart from other Thai curries. The inclusion of coconut milk and peanut butter makes this curry stand out as one of the creamiest and most fragrant dishes in Thai cuisine.

How It Differs from Other Curries

Unlike other Thai curries such as red, green, or yellow curries, which are typically known for their spicy heat, Massaman curry stands out for its milder, more aromatic flavor. It incorporates spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, which are uncommon in many other Thai curry varieties. While red and green curries rely heavily on fresh herbs like basil and cilantro, Massaman has a more subdued, slightly sweet and savory flavor profile thanks to its combination of peanuts, tamarind, and brown sugar. These ingredients, along with the cinnamon and nutmeg, give Massaman curry its distinctive flavor.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Massaman curry is often served in Thai restaurants worldwide, both as a standalone dish or alongside rice. It is a popular choice for both lunch and dinner, enjoyed by those looking for a rich, flavorful curry. In Thailand, Massaman curry is a traditional dish for special occasions such as festivals, family gatherings, and religious ceremonies. It is frequently paired with jasmine rice or served with a side of roti, a type of flatbread, to scoop up the delicious curry sauce.

Fun Facts About Massaman Curry

• In 2011, Massaman curry was recognized as one of the world's 50 most delicious foods by CNN.
• The dish has Persian origins and is believed to have been introduced to Thailand by Muslim traders in the 17th century.
• Although its called a curry, the flavor profile of Massaman is much less spicy compared to other Thai curries. This makes it an excellent choice for people who are sensitive to heat.
• In Thailand, the curry is often served with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, and lamb, but chicken is the most common choice in home-cooked recipes.
• Massaman curry's inclusion of peanuts is a nod to the Persian influence, as peanuts were introduced to the region by traders centuries ago.

Whether you're new to Thai cuisine or a seasoned fan, Chicken Massaman Curry offers a delicious introduction to the rich flavors of Thai cooking. With its blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic spices, it's a perfect dish for any occasion.

FAQ about Chicken Massaman Curry Recipe

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