Discover the delightful flavors of Massaman Curry, a rich and mildly spicy dish that marries Thai and Persian influences. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender potatoes simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, complemented by roasted peanuts for a unique texture. Perfect for a comforting dinner, Massaman Curry brings a taste of exotic cuisine to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons Massaman curry paste

- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk

- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 cup roasted peanuts

- 1 tablespoon brown sugar

- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 3 cardamom pods

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu (optional)

- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Curry Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and Massaman curry paste. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Coconut Milk and Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine with the curry paste.

Simmer Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add Peanuts and Sweetener: Stir in the roasted peanuts, brown sugar, and fish sauce. If using chicken or tofu, add it now and heat through.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more fish sauce or sugar to balance flavors.

Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.

Enjoy this flavorful Massaman Curry that combines the best of Thai and Persian culinary traditions!

Nutritional values

For the Massaman Curry

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: ~120

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: ~14g

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats that are essential for cooking and flavor.

 - Can be a source of omega-6 fatty acids (depending on the type of vegetable oil used).

Large Onion (1, finely chopped)

 - Calories: ~45

 - Carbohydrates: ~11g

 - Protein: ~1g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

 - Calories: ~4

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~0g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a strong flavor and aroma.

 - Contains allicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Massaman Curry Paste (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: ~20

 - Carbohydrates: ~2g

 - Protein: ~1g

 - Fat: ~1g

Benefits:

 - Adds rich, complex flavors to the curry.

 - Contains a blend of spices that may offer antioxidant benefits.

Coconut Milk (1 can, 400 ml)

 - Calories: ~450

 - Carbohydrates: ~10g

 - Protein: ~2g

 - Fat: ~45g

Benefits:

 - Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.

 - Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may support metabolism.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (2 cups)

 - Calories: ~15

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~2g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and a small amount of protein.

 - Contains minerals and amino acids beneficial for health.

Potatoes (3 large, peeled and diced)

 - Calories: ~150

 - Carbohydrates: ~34g

 - Protein: ~4g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds heartiness and texture.

 - Provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as potassium and vitamin C.

Roasted Peanuts (1 cup)

 - Calories: ~828

 - Carbohydrates: ~24g

 - Protein: ~37g

 - Fat: ~72g

Benefits:

 - Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.

 - High in protein, healthy fats, and nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.

Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon)

 - Calories: ~50

 - Carbohydrates: ~13g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness to balance the flavors.

 - Contains trace minerals such as calcium and iron.

Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: ~20

 - Carbohydrates: ~2g

 - Protein: ~2g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a salty, umami flavor.

 - Provides small amounts of protein and essential minerals.

Cinnamon Stick (1)

 - Calories: ~6

 - Carbohydrates: ~2g

 - Protein: ~0g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds warmth and sweetness to the curry.

 - Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Cardamom Pods (3)

 - Calories: ~6

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~0g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a complex, aromatic flavor.

 - Contains compounds that may support digestive health.

Bay Leaf (1)

 - Calories: ~5

 - Carbohydrates: ~1g

 - Protein: ~0g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds depth of flavor.

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that may aid digestion.

Cooked Chicken or Tofu (1 cup, optional)

 - Calories: ~200

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: ~31g

 - Fat: ~7g

(per cup, tofu):

 - Calories: ~150

 - Carbohydrates: ~4g

 - Protein: ~15g

 - Fat: ~9g

Benefits:

 - Adds protein and substance to the curry.

 - Chicken provides lean protein, while tofu offers a vegetarian protein source.

Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

 - Calories: ~1

 - Carbohydrates: ~0.2g

 - Protein: ~0.1g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a fresh, herbal flavor.

 - Contains vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.

Lime Wedges (for garnish)

 - Calories: ~2

 - Carbohydrates: ~0.5g

 - Protein: ~0g

 - Fat: ~0g

Benefits:

 - Adds a tangy flavor to the dish.

 - Rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health.

This combination of ingredients creates a flavorful Massaman curry with rich, complex flavors and a variety of health benefits. Enjoy preparing and savoring your curry!