Thai food is loved around the world for its balance of flavor, fragrance, and color. Among its many dishes, Panang curry has a special place. It is creamy, rich, slightly sweet, and often considered one of the most approachable curries for those who enjoy flavor without overwhelming spice.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about Panang curry, including its origins, ingredients, cooking style, and variations. By the end, you will have a full understanding of what makes this dish so popular and where to enjoy it at its best.
What Is Panang Curry?
Panang curry, sometimes spelled Phanaeng curry, is a Thai red curry that is thicker, creamier, and milder than other curries. It is made with a fragrant curry paste, rich coconut milk, and tender meat such as beef, chicken, or pork. The dish is finished with seasonings like palm sugar, fish sauce, and kaffir lime leaves, which give it a unique balance of sweet, salty, and citrusy notes.
Unlike other Thai curries that can be fiery and soupy, Panang curry is known for its nutty richness. Ground peanuts or peanut butter are often included, giving it a distinct flavor and thicker texture.
The Origins of Panang Curry
The dish is believed to have roots in central Thailand, with influences from neighboring Malaysia. The name “Panang” is thought to come from Penang, the Malaysian island, reflecting the cultural exchange between the two countries.
Panang curry blends Thai culinary traditions with hints of Indian and Malay influence, thanks to the spices and coconut base. Over time, it has become a beloved part of Thai cuisine and a staple on restaurant menus worldwide.
What Makes Panang Curry Different?
Thai cuisine includes many types of curry, so what sets this one apart?
- Texture – It is thicker and creamier than red or green curry.
- Flavor – It combines savory, nutty, and slightly sweet notes.
- Spice level – It is milder, making it suitable for people who prefer gentle heat.
- Fragrance – The addition of kaffir lime leaves gives it a bright aroma.
Panang Curry Key Ingredients
Curry Paste
The base paste usually includes dried chilies, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, coriander seeds, cumin, and shrimp paste.
Coconut Milk and Cream
These give the dish its signature creaminess and body.
Protein
Beef is the most traditional choice, but chicken, pork, seafood, or tofu are also common.
Herbs and Seasonings
Palm sugar, fish sauce, and kaffir lime leaves round out the flavors.
Optional Vegetables
Green beans, bell peppers, and carrots are sometimes added for extra color and texture.
How Is Panang Curry Cooked
Cooking Panang curry is simple once you have the ingredients:
- Warm coconut cream in a pan until it separates slightly.
- Stir in curry paste until fragrant.
- Add meat and coat it in the paste.
- Pour in coconut milk and simmer.
- Add palm sugar, fish sauce, and kaffir lime leaves.
- Finish with vegetables if desired.
- Serve hot with jasmine rice.
The Flavor Profile
Panang curry is creamy, nutty, and mildly spiced. The coconut milk provides smoothness, while the peanuts add depth and a hint of sweetness. The kaffir lime leaves give it a refreshing citrus touch.
Compared to other Thai curries:
- It is less spicy than green curry.
- It is thicker and nuttier than red curry.
- It is simpler and more coconut-rich than massaman curry.
Variations
While beef remains the classic version, there are many other ways to enjoy it:
- Chicken Panang Curry – Lighter, easy to prepare.
- Pork Panang Curry – A common home-style dish in Thailand.
- Seafood Panang Curry – Shrimp, mussels, or fish bring a coastal flavor.
- Vegetarian Panang Curry – Made with tofu or extra vegetables.
Is Panang Curry Healthy?
Panang curry can be both nourishing and indulgent.
- Benefits: It provides protein, healthy fats from coconut, and antioxidants from herbs.
- Concerns: It can be high in calories and fat, depending on the amount of coconut cream and sugar used.
For a healthier version, you can use light coconut milk, lean protein, and plenty of vegetables.
How to Make Panang Curry at Home
Here’s a simple home recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp Panang curry paste
- 1 can coconut milk
- ½ cup coconut cream
- 500g beef, chicken, pork, or tofu
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- Vegetables of choice
Steps:
- Heat coconut cream in a pan until it bubbles.
- Stir in curry paste until aromatic.
- Add meat or tofu and cook until coated.
- Pour in coconut milk and simmer.
- Stir in fish sauce and sugar.
- Add vegetables and kaffir lime leaves.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice.
What to Eat With It
The best pairing is steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce. Other good options include:
- Sticky rice
- Rice noodles
- Thai roti (flatbread)
- Fresh cucumber salad
Where to Try Panang Curry in Orlando
This dish is available in Thai restaurants worldwide. In Thailand, it is often served alongside stir-fries, soups, and other curries as part of a shared meal.
If you are in Orlando or nearby, one of the best places to enjoy it is Lim Ros Thai Restaurant. The restaurant is praised for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients, and the Panang curry is rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced. Whether you are new to Thai cuisine or a long-time fan, Lim Ros Thai offers a memorable dining experience that locals and visitors both love.
Discover Lim Ros Thai’s menu and visit us in Maitland for the best Thai food in Orlando.
Conclusion
So, what is Panang curry? It is a creamy and flavorful Thai curry made with coconut milk, curry paste, and fragrant herbs, known for its nutty richness and mild spice. Loved worldwide for its balanced flavors and comforting texture, it is a dish that brings together tradition, culture, and taste in one bowl.
Whether you enjoy it with beef, chicken, seafood, or tofu, Panang curry remains one of the most satisfying ways to experience the heart of Thai cooking.
