Prig gang ped, or Thai red curry paste, is used mainly as a base in sauces and marinades. Along with its robust and distinct flavor, it lends a deep red color to any broth or sauce it is added to. Although packaged red curry paste is readily available in Asian grocery stores, homemade red provides a more complex and aromatic flavor than the store-bought variety. Preparing it yourself also gives you the power to control the intensity of the spices. Once you have found all your ingredients, making red from scratch is relatively simple.
Instructions
1. Place the garlic in the mortar or food processor. Add the lemon grass, Kaffir leaves and galangal. Mash or process until a smooth paste is formed.
2. Thoroughly incorporate the cilantro and shallots into the mixture.
3. Add the salt, the dried chiles and the fresh chiles. Blend well.
4. Stir in the shrimp paste. The mixture should now be smooth and thick.
5. Season to taste with the coriander, pepper and cumin.
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