What are the key ingredients in a traditional Thai green curry?

A traditional Thai green curry is a spicy, fragrant dish that is a staple of Thai cuisine. While the exact ingredients can vary, there are a few key components that are essential to the dish.

The first key ingredient is the curry paste, which is made from a combination of green chilies, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, galangal, coriander root, kaffir lime peel, and shrimp paste. These ingredients are ground together to form a smooth paste, which is then used as the base for the curry.

The second key ingredient is coconut milk, which gives the curry its rich, creamy texture. Other important ingredients include Thai basil, fish sauce, palm sugar, and vegetables such as eggplant and bamboo shoots. Meat or seafood can also be added to the dish, with chicken and shrimp being popular options.

The final touch to a traditional Thai green curry is the garnishes. Fresh Thai basil leaves, sliced red chilies, and kaffir lime leaves are commonly used to add color and flavor to the dish.