Whether you’re a Thai food lover or just dipping your toes into Southeast Asian flavors, Thai curry is one of those dishes that never disappoints. Rich, aromatic, and full of depth, Thai curries are a major staple at Thai restaurants near you—and increasingly, in home kitchens too.

But did you know there’s more than just “green” and “red” curry? Each variety has its own unique flavor profile, color, spice level, and traditional ingredients.

Here’s your go-to guide to the most popular Thai curries, plus tips on how to make them yourself.

🌶️ 1. Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)

Flavor: Spicy, fragrant, and fresh
Color: Light green from green chilies and herbs
Star Ingredients: Green chilies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, Thai basil

Green curry is the boldest and often spiciest of the Thai curry family. Made with fresh green chilies and aromatic herbs, it gets its signature color and kick from vibrant ingredients. At most Thai restaurants, it’s served with chicken, eggplant, or tofu, and a healthy handful of Thai basil.

How to make it at home:
Use store-bought green curry paste or make your own by blending green chilies, garlic, shallots, galangal, and shrimp paste. Simmer in coconut milk, add your protein of choice, and finish with Thai basil and veggies.

❤️ 2. Red Curry (Gaeng Phet)

Flavor: Warm, rich, slightly sweet
Color: Deep red from dried red chilies
Star Ingredients: Red curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, Thai eggplant

Red curry is the most widely recognized outside of Thailand. It’s a go-to for many at Thai diners and takeout spots, thanks to its versatile flavor that pairs with chicken, beef, seafood, or vegetables.

How to make it at home:
Cook red curry paste in oil to release the flavor, then simmer with coconut milk. Add your protein, veggies, and a splash of fish sauce or palm sugar to balance the heat.

💛 3. Yellow Curry (Gaeng Garee)

Flavor: Milder, earthy, and slightly sweet
Color: Golden from turmeric and curry powder
Star Ingredients: Turmeric, cumin, coconut milk, potatoes, carrots

Yellow curry is influenced by Indian spices and has a comforting, mellow flavor. It’s great for those who prefer less spice but still want all the warmth of Thai food.

Popular in: Many Thai restaurants offer yellow curry with chicken and potatoes—perfect for beginners or spice-sensitive diners.

How to make it at home:
Sauté curry paste with coconut milk and turmeric. Add carrots, potatoes, and chicken or tofu for a creamy, satisfying bowl.

🍜 4. Panang Curry

Flavor: Creamy, nutty, and slightly sweet
Color: Reddish-brown
Star Ingredients: Panang curry paste, coconut milk, crushed peanuts, kaffir lime

Panang curry is a thicker, richer cousin of red curry—often with a slightly nutty flavor thanks to peanuts. It’s a favorite at Thai restaurants that serve more regional or specialty dishes.

Best with: Beef, chicken, or tofu

How to make it at home:
Panang curry paste is key—usually containing peanuts or ground sesame. Mix with thick coconut cream and finish with lime zest and fresh Thai basil.

🍂 5. Massaman Curry

Flavor: Mild, slightly sweet and tangy with a cinnamon-clove kick
Color: Deep brown
Star Ingredients: Potatoes, peanuts, cinnamon, tamarind, coconut milk

Massaman curry blends Thai and Persian influences and is often made with beef or lamb. It’s a comfort food favorite found in more traditional or regional Thai diners.

How to make it at home:
Use Massaman curry paste with cinnamon, cloves, and tamarind. Simmer with potatoes, onion, and roasted peanuts for a warming dish.

👨‍🍳 Tips for Making Thai Curry at Home

• Use full-fat coconut milk for richness
• Fresh herbs (like kaffir lime and Thai basil) make a huge difference
• Adjust spice levels to your taste—most curry pastes can be toned down or dialed up
• Serve with jasmine rice or sticky rice for a classic Thai meal
• Don't stress if you can't find every ingredient—Asian markets and online stores often carry Thai curry kits

📍 Where to Find Thai Curry Near You

If cooking isn't on tonight's agenda, no worries—these dishes are menu staples at Thai restaurants near you. Whether you’re craving something spicy like green curry or mellow like Massaman, your local Thai restaurants likely has exactly what you're looking for.

Browse your favorite spots on Springroll.com and discover which Thai curries are trending near you!

🥢 Final Thoughts

Thai curry is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re exploring new dishes at Thai restaurants or trying your hand at homemade versions, these curries offer a delicious gateway into the world of Thai cooking.

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