Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk, fresh herbs, and spicy green curry paste with tender meat and vegetables. This classic Thai dish is both comforting and exotic, offering a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and freshness. Paired with fragrant jasmine rice, it becomes a complete and satisfying meal ideal for lunch or dinner.

I love this recipe because it is intensely flavorful yet easy to prepare. The creamy coconut base paired with fragrant lime leaves, basil, and lemongrass creates an unforgettable depth of flavor. Each bite is a perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and freshness that brings Thai cuisine to your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is versatile, aromatic, and comforting. The combination of coconut milk, green curry paste, and fresh herbs creates a fragrant, flavorful sauce that coats every ingredient beautifully. The tender meat or tofu absorbs the curry flavors perfectly, and the vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and freshness.

This dish is perfect for experimenting with flavors and ingredients. You can adjust the spiciness, use different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and add seasonal vegetables. It’s a dynamic, flavorful dish that never gets boring.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice is a must-try because it is a signature dish that represents the complexity and depth of Thai cuisine. The balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors makes it incredibly satisfying. It is also a comforting yet elegant meal, suitable for family dinners or impressing guests.

The fragrant jasmine rice perfectly complements the rich curry sauce, making every bite flavorful and aromatic. The combination of herbs, spices, and coconut milk elevates this dish above typical weeknight meals, making it a must-try for lovers of global cuisine.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients

For the Green Curry

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced (can use shrimp, tofu, or beef)
• 2 tablespoons green curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup bamboo shoots (optional)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Jasmine Rice

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 4 cups water
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

Cooking the Rice

1. Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Cooking the Curry

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add green curry paste and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
4. Add sliced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until chicken is almost cooked through.
5. Add bell pepper, zucchini, onion, bamboo shoots, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh Thai basil and cilantro.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Slice chicken or your chosen protein and vegetables.
2. Rinse jasmine rice and measure out broth, coconut milk, and curry paste.

Step 2: Cook Jasmine Rice

1. Boil water and cook rice until tender.
2. Let rice rest before serving.

Step 3: Make Curry Base

1. Sauté green curry paste in oil until fragrant.
2. Add coconut milk and broth, stirring well.

Step 4: Cook Protein and Vegetables

1. Add protein and cook until nearly done.
2. Add vegetables and simmer until tender.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

1. Stir in fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice.
2. Garnish with Thai basil and cilantro before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve curry hot over steamed jasmine rice.
• Accompany with lime wedges for extra tang.
• Pair with Thai spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
• Use a deep bowl for curry and a side plate for rice, allowing diners to mix as desired.

Recipe Tips

• Use day-old rice if you want firmer grains for better texture.
• Adjust curry paste according to desired spice level.
• Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro enhance the aroma and taste.
• Do not overcook vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp.
• Fish sauce can be substituted with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.

Variations

• Spicy Green Curry: Add extra green curry paste or chopped fresh chili.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or a medley of vegetables instead of chicken.
• Seafood Curry: Substitute shrimp or scallops for protein.
• Creamier Version: Add more coconut milk for a richer sauce.
• Thai-Inspired Twist: Add pineapple chunks or baby corn for extra sweetness and texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store curry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: Can freeze curry for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth to restore creaminess. Rice is best freshly cooked, but cooked rice can be frozen and reheated in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan for rice
• Large skillet or wok for curry
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this curry vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth and soy sauce instead of fish sauce.

Can I use store-bought green curry paste?
Absolutely. Quality store-bought paste works well and saves time.

Is Thai green curry very spicy?
It can be adjusted to your taste by using less curry paste or adding fresh chilies for extra heat.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, the curry can be made ahead and gently reheated. Add fresh herbs before serving for best flavor.

What rice is best for this curry?
Jasmine rice is traditional due to its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, which complements the curry.

Conclusion

Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice is a fragrant, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the authentic taste of Thailand to your kitchen. The creamy coconut curry with tender protein and crisp vegetables, paired with aromatic jasmine rice, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare yet impressive in taste, this dish is ideal for family meals, dinner parties, or whenever you crave a taste of Thai cuisine.