Ingredients
Aromatics and Base
- 2 stalks lemongrass (see note 1)
- 5 Thai chilis (see note 2)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, virgin or unrefined
- 3/4 cup chopped shallots (about 1 large bulb)
- 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
Main Ingredients
- 10 ounces Yukon potatoes, cubed (see note 3)
- 3 tablespoons red curry paste (see note 4)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 large bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 large zucchini, diced (about 1 cup)
- 6 to 7 ounces tofu puffs, sliced in half
- 1/2 cup Thai basil, chopped
Optional Garnish
- Chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare Lemongrass: Peel off one outer layer of the lemongrass stalk. Trim off thin and woody tops if necessary. Chop the stalk in half and use a kitchen mallet to bash it several times to bruise and release flavors.
- Prepare Thai Chilis: Slice off the tops of the peppers and then cut them in half.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pot or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the lemongrass, chilis, shallots, and ginger slices, cooking for about 3 minutes while stirring frequently. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Spices: Transfer cubed Yukon potatoes to the pot. Stir in red curry paste, ground coriander (if using), and kosher salt, coating the potatoes thoroughly with the curry paste.
- Simmer Potatoes: Pour vegetable broth into the pot and cover with a lid. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Coconut Milk: Stir in the full-fat coconut milk along with thinly sliced bell pepper and diced zucchini. Cook the mixture partially covered for about 5 minutes.
- Add Tofu Puffs: Incorporate sliced tofu puffs into the pot and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through. Check potatoes are fork tender to ensure doneness.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and stir in chopped Thai basil. Serve the curry hot in bowls alongside jasmine rice. Garnish optionally with chopped peanuts.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers. Flavors will deepen and the curry tastes even better the next day.
Notes
- Note 1: Use fresh lemongrass stalks for the best fragrance and flavor.
- Note 2: Adjust the number of Thai chilis based on your spice preference; use fewer for milder curry.
- Note 3: Yukon potatoes hold their shape well; cubing them ensures even cooking.
- Note 4: Choose a good-quality red curry paste or make your own for authentic taste.
- Note 5: Tofu puffs absorb curry flavors well and provide a chewy texture; ensure they are warmed through before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian