Vegan Gaeng Phet Ma-Kham (Spicy Tamarind Curry)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tamarind shoots, washed and chopped
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 medium-sized eggplant, diced
- 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
- 4-5 kaffir lime leaves, torn
- 2-3 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup or other sweetener (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
For the Red Curry Paste:
- 3-4 dried red chilies, soaked in warm water
- 3 shallots, peeled
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 lemongrass stalk, sliced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, sliced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions:
Prepare the Red Curry Paste:
- In a blender or food processor, combine all the red curry paste ingredients and blend until it forms a smooth paste.
Cooking the Curry:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the red curry paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tofu cubes and cook until lightly browned.
Add Vegetables:
- Add eggplant, bamboo shoots, tamarind shoots, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the curry paste.
Add Coconut Milk:
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Seasoning:
- Add soy sauce, agave syrup, and salt to taste. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness according to your preference.
Simmer and Serve:
- Add kaffir lime leaves and Thai red chilies. Simmer the curry for about 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.