Massaman Curry (Kaeng Massaman) Recipe

Imagine sitting around the family table, the aroma of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise filling the air, drawing everyone in closer. Our Massaman Curry (Kaeng Massaman) is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a dish that weaves together the rich tapestry of Thai cuisine with your loving touch. This recipe is perfect for those cozy family gatherings where every spoonful is a journey of flavors, textures, and warm memories. Let’s bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one delicious mouthful at a time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Massaman curry paste
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 500 grams beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise
• 5 cloves
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Steamed rice (to serve)

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden and soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Massaman curry paste to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the beef chunks to the pot, making sure they are well coated with the sauce.
5. Toss in the potatoes, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour in the fish sauce, palm sugar, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
7. Once the curry is ready, stir in the roasted peanuts.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside steamed rice.

Helpful Tips

• Variation: You can easily substitute beef with chicken or lamb if preferred.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
• If you can’t find Massaman curry paste, you can use a mild or red curry paste as a substitute, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Pairings

This Massaman Curry pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or sticky rice. For a full spread, consider serving it with a simple Thai cucumber salad, fresh rice paper rolls, or a side of sautéed greens. To drink, a glass of chilled Thai iced tea or a light, aromatic white wine complements the rich flavors perfectly.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, turning every meal into a memorable occasion. We hope this Massaman Curry recipe inspires you to gather your family, share in the preparation, and create lasting memories. We would love to see your culinary creations, so don’t forget to share your results with us! Join our community by sharing this recipe with friends and family, exploring more delicious recipes on Zynahz, following us on social media, and signing up for our newsletter. Happy cooking!