Thai curry, a symphony of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and vibrant vegetables (or succulent meats), is a culinary masterpiece. But even the most exquisite curry benefits from carefully chosen accompaniments that elevate the entire dining experience. Knowing what to serve with Thai curry can transform a simple meal into a memorable feast. This guide will explore the best side dishes, beverages, and even dessert ideas to perfectly complement your favorite Thai curry.
The Foundation: Rice and Noodles
Rice is undeniably the quintessential partner for Thai curry. Its neutral flavor provides the perfect canvas to showcase the curry’s complex profile. But which type of rice reigns supreme?
Jasmine Rice: The Aromatic Staple
Jasmine rice, with its delicate floral aroma and slightly sticky texture, is the most popular choice. Its fragrance complements the fragrant spices in the curry, and its stickiness helps to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. Jasmine rice is an excellent option for almost any Thai curry, from the milder yellow curry to the spicier green or red varieties.
Brown Rice: A Healthier Alternative
For a nuttier flavor and added fiber, brown rice makes a healthy and satisfying alternative. Its chewier texture offers a pleasant contrast to the creamy curry. While it may not be as traditional as jasmine rice, it still works wonderfully, especially with curries containing vegetables or tofu.
Sticky Rice: A Northeastern Delight
Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a staple in northeastern Thailand (Isan). It is cooked by steaming, resulting in a very sticky and dense texture. While traditionally served with grilled meats and spicy salads, sticky rice can also pair well with certain Thai curries, particularly those with a slightly sweet or sour flavor profile.
Noodles: A Savory Twist
While rice is the traditional choice, noodles offer a different, equally delicious experience. Rice noodles, wheat noodles, or even glass noodles can be used, depending on your preference.
Rice Noodles: Wide or Thin?
Flat, wide rice noodles (sen yai) are excellent for soaking up the curry sauce. Their broad surface area allows them to capture every nuance of flavor. Thin rice noodles (sen lek) provide a lighter option and work well in curries with a thinner sauce.
Wheat Noodles: A Chewy Complement
Egg noodles or ramen-style wheat noodles can also be served with Thai curry. Their slightly chewy texture adds a pleasant contrast to the other ingredients. They are particularly well-suited to curries with a bolder flavor profile.
Sides that Sing: Vegetables and Salads
Adding vegetable side dishes to your Thai curry meal enhances the nutritional value and provides textural contrast. Salads offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the curry.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A Colorful Addition
A simple stir-fry of mixed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas, adds color, crunch, and vitamins to your meal. Lightly seasoned with soy sauce and a touch of garlic, the vegetables should be slightly crisp-tender.
Steamed Greens: A Healthy Choice
Steamed bok choy, spinach, or Chinese broccoli offer a healthy and simple side dish. A drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a touch of flavor and elegance.
Thai Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Contrast
A classic Thai cucumber salad (achar) provides a cool and refreshing counterpoint to the richness and spiciness of the curry. Made with sliced cucumbers, red onions, chilies, and a sweet and sour vinegar dressing, it cleanses the palate and prepares you for the next bite.
Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum): A Spicy Kick
For those who enjoy a little extra heat, green papaya salad (som tum) is an excellent choice. This vibrant salad, made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, chilies, and a tangy lime dressing, offers a complex interplay of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
Broths and Soups
A light broth or soup can be a delightful way to begin your Thai curry meal. It primes the palate and prepares it for the rich flavors to come.
Tom Yum Soup: A Tangy and Spicy Appetizer
Tom yum soup, with its characteristic sour and spicy broth, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies, is a classic Thai soup. It’s bold flavor profile makes it an ideal appetizer before a milder Thai curry.
Tom Kha Gai: A Creamy Coconut Soup
Tom kha gai, a creamy coconut soup with chicken, galangal, lemongrass, and mushrooms, offers a milder and more soothing option. Its creamy texture and fragrant aroma make it a comforting and flavorful start to the meal.
Condiments and Garnishes: Finishing Touches
Condiments and garnishes are the final flourishes that elevate your Thai curry experience. They allow you to customize the flavor and add visual appeal.
Fish Sauce: A Salty Umami Boost
Fish sauce is a fundamental ingredient in Thai cuisine, and a small dish of it on the side allows diners to add a salty and umami-rich flavor to their curry as desired.
Chili Flakes: For an Extra Kick
For those who crave extra heat, a sprinkle of dried chili flakes adds a fiery kick to the curry.
Fresh Herbs: Aromatic Freshness
Fresh herbs, such as cilantro, basil, and mint, add a burst of freshness and aroma to the curry. They should be added just before serving to preserve their delicate flavors.
Lime Wedges: A Zesty Squeeze
A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors of the curry and adds a touch of acidity.
Roasted Peanuts: Crunchy Texture
A sprinkle of roasted peanuts adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the curry.
Drinks that Delight: Beverages to Pair
The right beverage can enhance the flavors of your Thai curry and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the spiciness.
Iced Thai Tea: A Classic Pairing
Iced Thai tea, with its creamy sweetness and distinctive orange hue, is a classic pairing with Thai curry. Its sweetness helps to balance the spiciness of the curry.
Iced Coffee: A Bold Choice
Iced coffee, particularly Thai iced coffee (Oliang), offers a bolder and more robust flavor. Its bitterness provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy curry.
Coconut Water: A Tropical Refresher
Coconut water, with its natural sweetness and electrolytes, is a hydrating and refreshing choice. It complements the coconut milk in the curry and helps to cool the palate.
Beer: A Crisp Complement
A light and crisp beer, such as a lager or pilsner, pairs well with Thai curry. Its effervescence helps to cleanse the palate, and its mild flavor doesn’t overpower the curry’s complex profile.
Wine: A Sophisticated Option
While beer is a more traditional choice, certain wines can also pair well with Thai curry. Off-dry Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or Pinot Gris offer a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the curry’s flavors.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Ideas
After a flavorful Thai curry meal, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end the evening.
Mango Sticky Rice: A Traditional Treat
Mango sticky rice, made with sweet sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and a drizzle of coconut milk, is a classic Thai dessert. Its sweetness and creamy texture provide a satisfying end to the meal.
Coconut Ice Cream: A Simple Delight
Coconut ice cream, with its creamy texture and tropical flavor, is a simple yet delightful dessert. It complements the coconut milk in the curry and provides a refreshing cool-down.
Fresh Fruit: A Light and Healthy Choice
A platter of fresh fruit, such as pineapple, watermelon, or papaya, offers a light and healthy dessert option. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit help to cleanse the palate.
Banana Pancakes: A Fusion Treat
Banana pancakes, often served with condensed milk and chocolate sauce, offer a fusion dessert option that is popular in Thailand.
Tailoring Your Choices to the Curry Type
It’s important to consider the specific type of Thai curry when choosing your accompaniments. Green curry, red curry, yellow curry, Panang curry, and Massaman curry each have distinct flavor profiles that lend themselves to different pairings.
Green Curry: Bright and Spicy
Green curry, known for its vibrant green color and spicy kick, pairs well with jasmine rice, Thai cucumber salad, and coconut water. The coolness of the cucumber and coconut water helps to balance the spiciness.
Red Curry: Rich and Aromatic
Red curry, with its rich and aromatic flavor, pairs well with brown rice, stir-fried vegetables, and a light beer. The nuttiness of the brown rice and the crispness of the vegetables provide a pleasant contrast to the curry’s richness.
Yellow Curry: Mild and Sweet
Yellow curry, the mildest of the Thai curries, pairs well with sticky rice, steamed greens, and iced Thai tea. The sweetness of the tea complements the curry’s mild flavor.
Panang Curry: Creamy and Nutty
Panang curry, known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor, pairs well with jasmine rice, green papaya salad, and a glass of Gewürztraminer. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the curry’s richness.
Massaman Curry: Sweet and Savory
Massaman curry, with its complex blend of sweet and savory flavors, pairs well with brown rice, roasted peanuts, and a light lager. The beer’s crispness helps to balance the curry’s richness.
Consider Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
When planning your Thai curry meal, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb options can easily be incorporated.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
For vegan and vegetarian guests, ensure that the curry is made with tofu or vegetables instead of meat or seafood. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and avoid fish sauce.
Gluten-Free Options
For gluten-free guests, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Be mindful of noodles, ensuring they are made from rice flour or other gluten-free alternatives.
Low-Carb Options
For low-carb guests, serve the curry with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or noodles. Increase the proportion of vegetables in the curry and side dishes.
By carefully considering the flavors, textures, and aromas of your Thai curry and its accompaniments, you can create a truly memorable dining experience for yourself and your guests. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect pairings. The most important thing is to enjoy the delicious flavors of Thai cuisine!
What is the best type of rice to serve with Thai curry?
Thai jasmine rice is widely considered the perfect accompaniment to Thai curry. Its fragrant aroma and slightly sweet flavor profile complement the complex spice blends and rich sauces of most Thai curries without overpowering them. The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice also provides a delightful contrast to the often creamy or chunky consistency of the curry itself.
Beyond jasmine rice, sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice) is another popular option, particularly with Northern Thai curries like Khao Soi. Its chewy texture and subtle sweetness offer a different but equally satisfying experience. Brown rice, while less traditional, is a healthier alternative that provides a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Ultimately, the best type of rice is a matter of personal preference.
Can you suggest some vegetable side dishes that pair well with Thai curry?
Stir-fried vegetables offer a refreshing and healthy counterpoint to the richness of Thai curry. Morning glory (water spinach) stir-fried with garlic and chili is a classic choice. Other excellent options include broccoli, bok choy, or green beans sautéed with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil. These vegetables provide a delightful crunch and a boost of nutrients.
Another wonderful choice is a simple cucumber salad. The cool, crisp cucumbers offer a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the curry. A simple dressing of rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt is all that’s needed. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
What kind of protein dishes complement Thai curry?
Grilled or stir-fried chicken, pork, or tofu are excellent protein additions that work harmoniously with Thai curry. The mild flavors of these proteins allow the curry’s complex flavors to shine through without competition. Consider marinating the protein beforehand in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or fish can also be delicious when served alongside Thai curry, particularly those with coconut milk bases. The sweetness of the seafood complements the curry’s sweetness, creating a balanced and flavorful meal. Be mindful of cooking times to ensure the seafood remains tender and doesn’t become overcooked.
Are there any bread options suitable for serving with Thai curry?
While rice is the most traditional choice, certain breads can also be enjoyable when paired with Thai curry. Naan bread, similar to the Indian flatbread, is a good option for scooping up the sauce. Its soft, slightly chewy texture complements the creamy curries well.
Another option is roti, a flaky and buttery flatbread. Its richness and layers of texture can provide a satisfying contrast to the spiciness and complexity of the curry. Consider warming the bread before serving to enhance its aroma and texture.
What kind of beverages pair well with Thai curry?
Iced Thai tea is a classic and refreshing beverage that perfectly complements the spiciness and richness of Thai curry. Its creamy sweetness helps to cool the palate and balance the flavors. Another great option is coconut water, which is naturally hydrating and has a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the coconut milk often found in Thai curries.
For those who prefer alcoholic beverages, a light and crisp beer like Singha or Chang is a popular choice. The carbonation helps to cleanse the palate between bites, while the mild flavor doesn’t overpower the curry. Alternatively, a dry white wine, such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer, can also be a good pairing, as their acidity and aromatic qualities can complement the spices in the curry.
Can you suggest a refreshing salad that would be a good side dish for Thai curry?
A vibrant and refreshing mango salad makes an excellent side dish for Thai curry. The sweetness of the mango, combined with the crunch of peanuts and the tang of lime juice, creates a delightful contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the curry. This salad provides a burst of freshness and helps to balance the overall meal.
Another option is a papaya salad (Som Tum), a Thai classic. This salad combines shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, chili peppers, and peanuts, all tossed in a tangy and spicy dressing. Its bold flavors and crunchy texture offer a complex and exciting complement to Thai curry.
What desserts would be a good ending to a Thai curry meal?
Mango sticky rice is the quintessential Thai dessert and a perfect ending to a Thai curry meal. The sweetness of the ripe mango, combined with the creamy, slightly salty sticky rice, provides a satisfying and comforting conclusion. The warm sticky rice also contrasts nicely with the cooling effect of the fresh mango.
Another delightful option is coconut ice cream. Its creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor offer a refreshing and light finish to the meal. Consider topping it with toasted coconut flakes or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor. Both of these desserts perfectly complement the flavors of Thai cuisine.