Gaeng Som

Spice Level

Description

Gaeng Som is a unique Thai curry, without coconut milk, characterized by its sour and spicy taste. The base is a curry paste of dried chilies, shallots and shrimp paste, diluted in a broth made sour with tamarind or lime juice. The curry is filled with various vegetables (cabbage, green beans, green papaya) and fish or shrimp. The bright orange color comes from chilies and turmeric. It is an everyday dish in southern and central Thailand, light and refreshing despite its heat.

History & Origin

Gaeng Som is one of the oldest curries in Thailand, predating the introduction of coconut milk into Thai cuisine. It represents the original culinary tradition, where sourness and spiciness dominated. In the south, the local version (Gaeng Som Pak Tai) is even spicier and uses fresh turmeric.

Main Ingredients

• Chou
• Turmeric
• Shallots
• Long beans
• Pâte de crevettes
• Chilies
• Fish
• Fish sauce
• Tamarind