SOS-free Gaeng Som (Orange Curry)
A delicious sour curry made without coconut milk or oil. A great filling yet no oil option. Dish made with low salt and sugar or 100% salt and sugar free.
More about our Gaeng Som (Orange Curry)
Gaeng som, also known as orange curry, is a traditional Thai curry that is known for its tangy and sour flavor profile. It is a popular dish in Thailand and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The dish is made with a mixture of spices and ingredients that give it its unique and delicious taste. The origins of gaeng som can be traced back to Southern Thailand, where it is believed to have originated. The dish is believed to have been influenced by Chinese cuisine, as it contains elements of sourness and spiciness that are common in Chinese cooking. Over time, gaeng som has become popular all over Thailand and is now enjoyed by people from all walks of life. When it comes to preparing gaeng som, there are a few key techniques and ingredients that are essential to achieving the perfect dish. The main ingredients in gaeng som include shrimp, fish, or chicken, though at Chakra we only use vegan ingredients, along with vegetables such as shredded green papaya and green beans. The dish is seasoned with a mixture of spices, including chili peppers, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and tamarind paste, which gives it its signature tangy flavor. To prepare gaeng som, the first step is to make a paste by blending together the chili peppers, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and tamarind paste. This paste is then fried in oil until fragrant, before adding the meat or seafood and vegetables. The dish is then simmered in a mixture of coconut milk and water until the flavors have melded together and the ingredients are cooked through. One of the key techniques when making gaeng som is to balance the sourness, spiciness, and sweetness of the dish. This can be achieved by adjusting the amount of tamarind paste, chili peppers, and sugar that is added to the curry. The dish should have a well-rounded flavor profile that is both tangy and spicy, with a hint of sweetness to balance it out. Gaeng som is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of different ingredients, depending on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. It can be made with seafood, chicken, or tofu, along with a variety of vegetables such as squash, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. The dish can also be made with different levels of spiciness, depending on how many chili peppers are added to the curry paste. In recent years, gaeng som has become increasingly popular worldwide, with Thai restaurants and food bloggers introducing the dish to a global audience. The tangy and spicy flavors of gaeng som have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts who are looking for something different and unique to try. One of the reasons why gaeng som has gained popularity worldwide is because of its health benefits. The dish is made with fresh and nutritious ingredients, including vegetables and lean proteins, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. The dish is also low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for those who are looking to maintain a healthy diet.