Mussamun Curry Paste Also Spelled Massaman Food

THAI MUSSAMUN CURRY WITH CHICKEN, POTATOES, AND PEANUTS

Steps:

• Open 1 can of coconut milk and use a fork to stir the contents until smooth and well combined. In a 6-quart saucepan or Dutch oven, bring 1/2 cup of the stirred coconut milk to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the curry paste and cook 1 minute, stirring and mashing the paste into the coconut milk. Add the chicken and cook 2 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken begins to change color. Add all the remaining coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, tamarind liquid and salt and bring to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and cook 15 to 20 minutes, until the potato is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Add 2 tablespoons of the lime juice and stir well. Taste and add more, if desired. Remove from the heat and let stand 10 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl, removing and discarding the cinnamon sticks, or leaving them in as a traditional garnish not to be eaten. Serve hot or warm.

MUSSAMUN CURRY PASTE (ALSO SPELLED MASSAMAN)

Steps:

• Stem the chilies and cut them into small pieces, using kitchen scissors or a knife. There should be about 1\4 cup. Place in a small bowl and add warm water to cover. Let them soak for about 15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
• Meanwhile, place a small plate by the stove to hold the spices. Combine the cumin and coriander in a small, dry frying pan. Place over medium heat and toast the spices 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly darkened. Remove from the heat and tip out onto the plate. Add the pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, and salt, and set aside.
• In a blender or mini food processor, combine the onion, garlic, lemongrass, galanga or ginger, 2 tablespoons water, drained chilies, and spices. Process to a fairly smooth, evenly colored paste, stopping often to scrape down the sides and grind everything well. Add a little more water as needed to keep the blades moving.
• Transfer the curry paste to a jar and seal airtight. Refrigerate until needed for up to 1 month.
• Note: This paste can be frozen for up to 6 months. Consider freezing in tablespoon-size portion if you plan to defrost just enough for one curry at a time.