You only need 2 tablespoons of this paste for the Panang Vegetable Curry. Freeze tablespoonfuls of the remaining paste on a sheet pan, then store in a plastic freezer bag for up to 2 months. Use cubes to add deep flavor to soups, stews, and rice dishes.
Cooks' Note
Editor’s note: This recipe has been updated as a part of our archive repair project.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 3/4 cup
Ingredients
2 dried chiles de árbol, stemmed
2 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed
2 fresh lemongrass stalks, bottom 4" only, tough outer layer discarded, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons roasted peanuts
2 chopped peeled fresh (or frozen, thawed) galangal
6 fresh or frozen makrut lime leaves, finely chopped
1 large shallot, chopped
4 garlic cloves, chopped
2 fresh serrano chiles, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoons freshly ground pepper
Ingredient info: Look for chiles de árbol, guajillo chiles, and lemongrass at better supermarkets. Galangal and makrut lime leaves are sold at Southeast Asian markets.
Preparation
Place dried chiles in a medium bowl; cover with hot water and soak for 15 minutes. Drain; place chiles and all remaining ingredients in a mini-processor; process until paste forms. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 months ahead. Store airtight in freezer.
