Spicy Coconut Curry Sauce
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant spicy coconut curry sauce is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture and zingy flavour. By simmering unsweetened coconut milk with fragrant Thai red curry paste, garlic and fresh lime, you create a rich, aromatic base that elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. It is a fantastic option for those seeking a dairy-free alternative that does not compromise on punchy, savoury notes.
As a cupboard-staple sauce, it pairs beautifully with grilled tiger prawns, steamed white fish or roasted seasonal vegetables. The addition of fish sauce and a hint of sugar provides that essential salty-sweet finish typical of Southeast Asian cuisine. Whether you are preparing a quick midweek dinner or hosting a relaxed weekend gathering, this homemade sauce provides a nutritious and flavourful foundation for various healthy dishes.
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Ingredients for Spicy Coconut Curry Sauce
120g minced onion
4 large garlic cloves, minced
60ml Thai red curry paste
60ml vegetable oil
550ml well-stirred unsweetened coconut milk (from 2 cans)
45ml lime juice
1 1/2 tablespoons Asian fish sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoons cayenne
1/2 cup chopped coriander sprigs (optional)
How to make Spicy Coconut Curry Sauce
Cook onion, garlic, curry paste, and 1/4 teaspoons salt in oil in a wide 2-quart heavy saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until onion is softened, 6 to 8 minutes.
Add coconut milk and gently simmer, stirring frequently, until reduced to 475ml , 20 to 30 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, cayenne, coriander (if desired), and salt to taste.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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