Vegan Massaman Curry

The taste of Massaman curry is distinctive for its rich and well-balanced flavor, blending sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of sourness. It carries a unique aroma from a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander seeds, cinnamon, and cloves. The flavor is complex yet harmonious, medium spicy without being overwhelming, with the rich fragrance of coconut milk as the key ingredient.

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 130g cooked chickpea (10 tbsp)

• 4 tbsp Blue Nun Massaman Curry Powder 

• 2 cups coconut milk

• 2 cups vegetable stock (substitute with water)

• 140g pan-roasted baby potato

• 80g yam, cubed

• 60g carrot, cubed

• 150g cauliflower

• 60g yellow onion, wedged 

• 2 tbsp coconut sugar, or to taste

• 2 tbsp soy sauce, or to taste

• 4 tsp nutritional yeast, or to taste

• 2½ tbsp cooking oil

• 2 tsp tamarind powder, or 4 tsp tamarind juice

• 3-4 pcs bay leaf (optional)

• 2-3 pcs star anise (optional)

Preparation

1. To prepare pan-roasted baby potatoes, place a skillet over medium heat and add a ½ tbsp cooking oil. Once oil has heated (before smoking), lay the baby potatoes in a single layer. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. Set aside.

2. Place a pot on low heat and add 1 cup coconut milk, the remaining cooking oil, and 4 tbsp Blue Nun Massaman Curry Powder, bay leaves & star anise. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until evenly dissolved and fragrant. Add vegetable stock and cook until the soup begins to boil. 

3. Add chickpea, potatoes, yam, carrot and onions, season with coconut sugar, soy sauce, nutritional yeast and tamarind, simmer for 12 minutes. (Tamarind can be substituted with 2 tsp lime juice, preferably fresh)

4. Add cauliflower, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Remove the pot from heat and transfer the curry to serving bowls. Top with crispy shallot or sliced red onion, roasted cashew, and serve alongside steamed rice.

Spice Variations and Additions

There’s no harm in being versatile with your Massaman Curry. You can always adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

• Spice Level: If you enjoy spicier dishes, consider adding fresh chilies, chili oil or chili powder.

• Veggies: Feel free to include any seasonal root vegetables, e.g. beets, turnips, taro, lotus roots, …don’t hesitate to be creative!

Pairing Suggestions

While Massaman curry is delightful on its own, giving some thought to pairings can elevate your meal experience:

• Rice: Serve it over white jasmine or wholegrain rice to complement the curry's rich flavors.

• Flatbreads: Naan or roti are ideal for scooping up the curry, ensuring every last drop is savoured.

• Side dishes: A fresh cucumber salad or Thai relish (ajad อาจาด) can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the curry.