This dish celebrates the rich and smoky essence of roasted eggplants, harmoniously melded with a medley of aromatic spices and herbs. Whether you're a devoted curry connoisseur or a curious food lover looking to expand your culinary horizons, this recipe offers a delectable journey through the world of piquant curries.
Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering exploration of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that come together to create a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving every spoonful. This Eggplant Piquant Curry is not just a dish; it's an invitation to savor the enchanting flavors of a time-honored culinary tradition with a contemporary twist.
Prepare yourself for a delicious adventure! It’s time to try something new with a healthy and delicious twist! Here is the curry recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Curry Paste:
2-3 dried red chili peppers (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 stalk lemongrass, white part only, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp shrimp paste (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Salt to taste
For the Curry:
2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 can (14 oz) Thai Coco's full fat coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
Juice of 1 lime
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Curry Paste:
- Begin by soaking the dried red chili peppers in hot water for about 15 minutes until they become soft. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or leave them for extra heat.
- Drain the soaked chili peppers and place them in a blender or food processor along with the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped onion, lemongrass, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, shrimp paste (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Blend the ingredients into a smooth paste. You may need to add a little water to help with blending. Set the paste aside.
2. Roast the Eggplant:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the eggplant cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned. Set aside.
3. Cook the Curry:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the curry paste you prepared earlier and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the can of coconut milk, vegetable broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, as well as the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but still maintain their vibrant colors and crunch.
4. Combine with Roasted Eggplant:
- Gently fold the roasted eggplant cubes into the curry mixture, ensuring they are well coated with the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Serve:
- Once the curry is heated through and the vegetables are tender yet crisp, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Ladle the Eggplant Piquant Curry into serving bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbaceous freshness. Serve your homemade Eggplant Piquant Curry hot, accompanied by cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles. Enjoy the rich, spicy-sweet flavors and the satisfying combination of creamy coconut milk and tender roasted eggplant in every delightful spoonful.
What Is The Secret To Cooking Eggplant?
Eggplant is one of the most delicate vegetables on which slight undercooking is insufficient. Only when it cooks thoroughly it becomes soft, smooth, and creamy; it can be blended with many other foods.
Is Eggplant Good For You?Eggplant contains modest sodium and few calories while offering vital nutrients, including dietary fiber, potassium, A, B, and C vitamins. Plus it contains phytochemicals known as polyphenols, which may help cells manufacture glucose if you have diabetes.
In conclusion, the Eggplant Piquant Curry is a true gem in the world of Thai cuisine. Its combination of creamy coconut milk, spicy red curry paste, and tender eggplants creates a harmonious explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy option packed with nutrients from eggplants and coconut milk. Whether you're an adventurous food lover or a fan of Thai cuisine, this curry is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and let the aroma of this spicy delight fill your kitchen. Enjoy the exotic flavors and the satisfaction of creating an authentic Thai masterpiece. Happy cooking!
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