How to Make Authentic Thai Chicken Gaeng Massaman with Cinnamon

Simple Summary

This aromatic Thai Chicken Gaeng Massaman with Cinnamon is a rich, comforting curry that balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with tender chicken and a creamy coconut base.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cans (13.5 oz each) coconut milk
• 3 tbsp massaman curry paste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp palm sugar or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the massaman curry paste and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Pour in one can of coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes, stirring to coat with the curry sauce.

5. Add the remaining can of coconut milk, chicken broth, potatoes, peanuts, fish sauce, palm sugar, tamarind paste, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

7. Remove the cinnamon sticks and bay leaves.

8. Stir in the lime juice and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.

9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Chef's Notes

• For a richer flavor, toast the cinnamon sticks in a dry pan before adding them to the curry.
• If you prefer a thicker curry, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve overnight.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mixed vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant.
• If you can't find massaman curry paste, you can use red curry paste and add additional ground coriander, cumin, and cardamom to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 42g (mostly from healthy coconut milk)
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and iron

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Pair with a crisp Thai cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a side of roti or naan bread for dipping.
• Garnish with additional crushed peanuts and a sprinkle of fresh Thai basil leaves.
• For a complete Thai meal, start with Tom Yum soup and finish with mango sticky rice for dessert.
• A cold Thai iced tea or a light lager beer complements the rich flavors of the curry perfectly.