Welcome to the vibrant world of Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)! This delightful Thai curry is a beautiful showcase of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, all simmered together in a spicy and fragrant broth. Known for its health benefits and rich flavors, Gaeng Liang has become a staple in Thai cuisine, loved by many for its nourishing profile.
Originating from Thailand, Gaeng Liang is traditionally associated with the rainy season when fresh produce is at its peak. The curry is revered for its unique blend of spices and the use of seasonal vegetables, making it both comforting and invigorating. In this article, you will learn not only how to make Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) at home but also explore its variations and key ingredients that make this dish shine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Thai basil | 1 cup | This aromatic herb adds a hint of sweetness and an authentic touch to Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry). |
| Green beans | 1 cup, cut into 2-inch pieces | Crunchy and vibrant, green beans contribute both texture and nutrition to this curry. |
| Carrots | 1 cup, sliced | Sweet and colorful, carrots are not only tasty but also full of vitamins. |
| Baby corn | 1 cup | These tender morsels add a burst of flavor and a fun crunch. |
| Coconut milk | 1 can (400ml) | Creamy and rich, coconut milk forms the base of the sauce, offering a smooth consistency to the curry. |
| Red curry paste | 2 tablespoons | This spicy paste is key to awakening all the bold flavors in Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry). |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry). |
| Vegetable stock | 2 cups | A flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together harmoniously. |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons | This adds umami depth and saltiness, essential in Thai cooking. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season to your preference for the best flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your vegetables. Make sure you have everything cut and ready to go. This makes cooking Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) a breeze!
- Cook the Base: In a large pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute. This will create a delicious base for your Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry).
- Add the Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste and cook for about another minute. This step is crucial as it allows the spices to bloom and releases those mouth-watering aromas.
- Incorporate the Vegetables: Toss in the green beans, carrots, and baby corn. Stir for about 3-4 minutes, letting them soak up the curry flavors.
- Add Coconut Milk and Stock: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable stock. Stir well, and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is the moment when your kitchen will smell irresistible!
- Season the Curry: Add the fish sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed; you want that perfect balance of flavor.
- Finish & Serve: Once the vegetables are tender, but still have a nice bite, remove from heat. Serve your Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) hot, garnished with fresh Thai basil. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa.
Pro Tips
- Fresh is Best: Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavors in your Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry).
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add some sliced chili peppers when sautéing the garlic.
- Vegan Option: Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce for a vegan-friendly version of Gaeng Liang.
- Leftovers Love: This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.
- Customize It: Feel free to add protein like tofu or shrimp to make it heartier!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Saturated Fats | 8g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Total Fat | 10g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)?
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make it vegan by substituting fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)?
This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even rice noodles for a different twist!
How long does it take to prepare Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking will take roughly 20-25 minutes. Total time is around 40 minutes.
Can I freeze Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) for later?
Yes, this curry freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What are some variations of Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)?
You can mix and match vegetables based on what you have. Popular additions include bell peppers, zucchini, and peas.
Is Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of curry paste you use. Feel free to adjust it to suit your taste!
Can I add meat to Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry)?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions. Just cook the protein first before adding the vegetables.
Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and health! Packed with vibrant vegetables and enriched with aromatic spices, this curry brings a taste of Thailand right into your kitchen. Now that you’ve learned how to make this delightful curry at home, we hope you’ll give it a try. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you make—I’d love to hear how your version turns out!
Tried this Gaeng Liang (Mixed Vegetable Curry) recipe? Let us know your experience in the comments!
