Hearty Northern Thai-Style Chicken Curry (Khao Soi)

Khao Soi is a tantalizing Northern Thai dish that combines rich flavors and lush textures. This vibrant curry is characterized by a creamy coconut broth, tender chicken, and crispy egg noodles. It marries aromatic spices with silky smooth coconut milk, creating a comforting yet exotic culinary masterpiece. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with an authentic Thai feast.

Ingredients:
For the Curry Paste:
– 1 tbsp coriander seeds
– 1 tsp cumin seeds
– 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric (or 1 tsp ground turmeric)
– 5 dried red chilies, soaked and seeded
– 3 garlic cloves
– 2 shallots
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only)

For the Curry:
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 200g dried egg noodles
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup pickled mustard greens, chopped
– 2 limes, cut into wedges
– 2 shallots, thinly sliced
– Crispy fried onions or shallots (optional)

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Curry Paste:
– In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast coriander seeds and cumin seeds until fragrant.
– Combine toasted seeds, turmeric, dried chilies, garlic, shallots, ginger, and lemongrass in a blender or food processor.
– Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary to form a paste.

2. Cook the Curry:
– Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the curry paste and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
– Add chicken pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them in the paste. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes.
– Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
– Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to the pot, stirring to combine. Allow the curry to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

3. Prepare the Egg Noodles:
– While the curry is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Assemble the Dish:
– Divide the cooked egg noodles among serving bowls.
– Ladle the chicken curry over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets a delicious mix of broth and chicken.
– Garnish with chopped cilantro, pickled mustard greens, shallots, and crispy fried onions or shallots if using.
– Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Enjoy your Hearty Northern Thai-Style Chicken Curry, a delectable journey into the flavors of Thailand!