Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry offers an exciting, vibrant blend of flavors that combines the richness of coconut milk with the spicy kick of green curry paste, paired with succulent prawns, making it the perfect balance of exotic and comforting. It’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive on the table, a true winner for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is a fragrant and flavorful dish inspired by the bold and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine. At its heart, the curry features plump prawns cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, enriched with green curry paste, lime leaves, and a variety of herbs and spices.

The dish is wonderfully balanced with a harmonious mix of heat, sweetness, and tang, thanks to the fresh ingredients like lemongrass, coriander, and lime. This curry is often served with rice, allowing the sauce to be soaked up and enjoyed to the fullest. What makes this particular recipe stand out is its simplicity and ability to bring a taste of Thailand into your home kitchen with minimal effort.

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry, you’ll need a variety of fresh and aromatic ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

• Prawns: Fresh, peeled, and deveined prawns are the main protein.
• Coconut Milk: The creamy base of the curry, providing richness and depth of flavor.
• Green Curry Paste: The key ingredient for the signature spicy, herbal flavor.
• Fresh Lemongrass: Adds a citrusy, floral note that enhances the curry’s fragrance.
• Kaffir Lime Leaves: Infuse a distinct lime flavor with an aromatic punch.
• Fresh Coriander: Adds a refreshing herbal element.
• Fish Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor, balancing the sweetness of the coconut milk.
• Lime: For zesty tanginess, both the juice and zest are used.
• Garlic and Ginger: Provide a foundational flavor profile that complements the spiciness.
• Vegetables (optional): Often, Jamie adds ingredients like bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch and flavor.
• Rice: For serving and soaking up the curry sauce.

Equipment Needed

While the recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment, a few standard kitchen items will make the cooking process smoother:

• Large Skillet or Wok: A wide, flat surface to cook and mix the curry ingredients.
• Knife: For chopping and slicing vegetables, lemongrass, and garlic.
• Chopping Board: A stable surface to work on while preparing ingredients.
• Ladle or Spoon: For stirring and serving the curry.
• Rice Cooker or Pot: For cooking the rice to go with the curry.
• Small Bowl: To mix any seasoning or additional garnishes like fresh coriander or lime wedges.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is straightforward, with the rich and aromatic flavors coming together in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining the prawns, chop the garlic and ginger finely, slice the lemongrass, and cut the lime into wedges. If using vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
3. Fry the Aromatics: Add the garlic, ginger, and lemongrass, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Curry Paste: Stir in the green curry paste and cook for another 2 minutes. You want to release the full flavor of the paste by letting it cook and deepen in color.
5. Coconut Milk and Lime Leaves: Pour in the coconut milk and add the kaffir lime leaves. Stir well and bring it to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the curry sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’re adding vegetables, this is the time to toss them in and let them cook until tender.
7. Cook the Prawns: Add the prawns to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
8. Finish with Freshness: Season the curry with fish sauce and a squeeze of lime juice to balance out the flavors. Stir in fresh coriander for added flavor and color.
9. Serve: Serve the curry hot over a bed of steamed rice, garnishing with more fresh coriander and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Expert Tips

1. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder curry, use less green curry paste or opt for a less spicy version. You can always add more later to increase the heat.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: The aroma and taste of fresh lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves make a big difference in elevating the dish. Don’t skip these ingredients for the full Thai flavor experience.
3. Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook quickly, so be sure to add them towards the end of the cooking process and cook them just until they are pink and firm.
4. Make it Vegan: To make a vegan version of this curry, substitute the prawns with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and use a vegetable-based stock instead of fish sauce.
5. Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as mushrooms, baby corn, or spinach. This adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is a simple yet stunning dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine with its bold, balanced flavors and vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking Thai food or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is sure to impress with its blend of creamy coconut milk, spicy green curry paste, and fresh prawns.

The best part is that it comes together quickly, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With a few simple tips, you can customize the dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a delicious meal every time.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. It’s a vibrant dish that offers endless possibilities for customization based on your personal preferences or available ingredients. Here are some easy variations that can help you switch things up:

1. Substitute Prawns with Other Proteins: If you’re not a fan of prawns or simply want to experiment with different proteins, you can easily swap the prawns with chicken, tofu, or even a mix of vegetables. Chicken thighs or breasts are great alternatives that complement the green curry sauce well. For a vegetarian or vegan option, tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms can absorb the flavors of the curry beautifully.
2. Switch Up the Vegetables: Thai green curry pairs wonderfully with various vegetables. If you prefer a more hearty version, add root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. For a crunchy contrast, try adding baby corn, zucchini, or bell peppers. Eggplant is another fantastic addition that soaks up the curry’s flavors, making each bite deliciously rich.
3. Adjust the Spice Level: Thai green curry is known for its heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the number of green chilies or replace them with milder peppers like jalapeños or bell peppers. On the other hand, if you crave more heat, consider adding extra chilies or a dash of chili flakes to the curry paste.
4. Add Coconut Milk or Cream for a Richer Texture: For a creamier texture, increase the amount of coconut milk or substitute it with coconut cream. This variation will give your curry an even richer, velvety consistency that pairs wonderfully with the fragrant herbs and spices.
5. Flavor Boost with Fresh Herbs and Garnishes: To enhance the fresh flavors of the curry, top it off with extra fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and a delightful crunch.
6. Make it More Tangy: If you enjoy a tangy note in your curry, try adding a bit of tamarind paste, lime zest, or even a splash of fish sauce. These ingredients will heighten the flavor profile and add depth to your dish.
7. Serve with a Twist: Instead of serving your Thai Green Prawn Curry with traditional jasmine rice, try it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or with quinoa for a nutty flavor. You can also serve it over rice noodles for a more hearty meal that feels like a noodle soup.

These variations make the dish versatile and adaptable to what you have in your pantry or to suit different dietary preferences. Get creative and experiment with what you enjoy most!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftover Thai Green Prawn Curry properly ensures that you can enjoy it later without sacrificing its fresh flavors. Here are some tips on how to store it safely and maintain its taste:

1. Cool Down the Curry: Before storing, let the curry cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the curry watery when reheated.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store the curry in airtight containers to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge and to preserve its flavors. Glass containers are ideal since they won’t stain like plastic, and they also help retain the flavor better.
3. Separate Proteins and Sauce: If you’re storing the prawns and curry sauce together, the prawns might become overcooked and rubbery when reheated. If possible, store the prawns separately from the sauce. This way, you can reheat the curry sauce and add the prawns later to maintain their texture.
4. Refrigerate Immediately: Thai green curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that it’s kept at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to keep it safe to eat.
5. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to keep your leftovers for a longer period, freezing is a great option. However, keep in mind that the prawns might lose some of their texture when thawed. To freeze, store the curry sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. For best results, consume frozen curry within 1-2 months.
6. Reheat with Care: When reheating your curry, do so on low to medium heat. Avoid microwaving the curry at high temperatures, as it can cause the prawns to become tough and overcooked. If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. Avoid Storing Multiple Times: It’s always better to store leftover curry only once. Repeatedly reheating and cooling the curry increases the risk of foodborne illness, so it’s safest to only reheat what you’ll eat.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your Thai Green Prawn Curry stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to enjoy for several days.

What Goes Well With Thai Green Prawn Curry?

Thai Green Prawn Curry is a rich, fragrant dish that pairs well with a variety of sides to complement its flavors. Here are some great options for sides that will enhance your meal:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The mild, fluffy texture of jasmine rice is the classic choice to serve with Thai green curry. It acts as a perfect base, absorbing the rich coconut milk and spices from the curry.
2. Rice Noodles: If you want something lighter than rice, try rice noodles. They work wonderfully with the curry sauce, soaking up the flavors while adding a satisfying texture to the dish.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls: For a crunchy contrast, serve Thai green prawn curry with crispy vegetable or prawn spring rolls. The light, crispy texture of the rolls pairs beautifully with the creamy, rich curry.
4. Thai-style Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime, fish sauce, and fresh herbs can help balance out the heat of the curry. The cool, crisp cucumber will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
5. Sauteed Greens: Simple sautéed greens like bok choy, spinach, or kale with a bit of garlic and soy sauce add a light, savory touch to your meal, offering a healthy, crunchy texture to complement the curry.
6. Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: If you prefer some grilled vegetables on the side, try grilling eggplant, bell peppers, or zucchini. Their smoky flavor will add an extra layer of depth to the meal.
7. Thai Pickled Vegetables: These tangy, slightly sweet pickled vegetables bring an exciting burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the curry. They cut through the richness and provide a great contrast in both flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal at home. With its adaptable recipe, you can make various changes to suit your preferences, whether it’s swapping proteins, changing the heat level, or adding extra vegetables for texture.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy the dish for several days, and when paired with the right sides, it becomes even more of a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this curry has the versatility and flavor to please everyone at the table. So, get cooking, experiment with new variations, and enjoy this flavorful Thai dish!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

To make Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry, you will need prawns, green curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, lime leaves, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs like coriander and basil. You will also need rice to serve the curry with.

How Spicy Is Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

The spiciness of Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry depends on the amount of green curry paste you use. Generally, green curry paste has a mild to moderate heat level, but you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less paste according to your preference.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Protein In Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Curry Instead Of Prawns?

Yes, you can easily substitute prawns with chicken, tofu, or even beef. Each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, but the curry itself will still be delicious with any of these options.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry Recipe Suitable For Gluten-free Diets?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any hidden gluten, especially in items like fish sauce or curry paste, which may contain gluten depending on the brand.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

It typically takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 10-15 minutes to cook the curry, so the total time to make the dish is around 25-30 minutes.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry In Advance?

Yes, you can make the curry in advance. It can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.

Just be sure to reheat it gently. However, prawns can become tough when reheated, so it’s best to cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry is commonly served with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice. You can also serve it with noodles or a side of sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Thai Green Prawn Curry?

It’s not recommended to freeze the curry with prawns because the texture of the prawns may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the curry sauce (without prawns), and then add fresh prawns when you reheat the sauce.

How Do I Store Leftover Thai Green Prawn Curry?

Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating it. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Can I Make The Green Curry Paste From Scratch For Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

Yes, you can make green curry paste from scratch using ingredients like green chilies, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and other spices. This can add extra freshness and flavor to the dish compared to using store-bought paste.