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Thai Green Curry Paste

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic Thai green curry paste is a vibrant, aromatic kitchen essential that far surpasses any shop-bought alternative. By blending fresh green chillies with fragrant lemongrass, earthy galangal, and Thai basil, you create a complex base that delivers a punchy heat and citrusy brightness. This naturally dairy-free condiment provides the foundation for countless Southeast Asian dishes, offering a much deeper flavour profile than pre-packaged jars found in the supermarket.

Perfect for a quick midweek meal or an elaborate weekend feast, this homemade paste is simple to prepare in advance. It is a brilliant way to use up fresh herbs and aromatics, and any leftovers can be frozen in portions for future use. Simply fry a few tablespoons with coconut milk to create a beautifully balanced, restaurant-quality curry in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients for Thai Green Curry Paste

  • 12 small green Thai chillies, stems removed

  • 2 lemongrass stalks, bottom third only, tough outer layers removed, smashed with the back of a knife, thinly sliced

  • 2 shallots, coarsely chopped

  • 8 small or 6 large garlic cloves

  • 1 (4") piece galangal, peeled, thinly sliced

  • Zest of 1 makrut (Thai) lime (optional)

  • 150g Thai basil leaves

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fingerroot (kra chai) in brine (optional)

  • 2 1/2 teaspoons prawns paste

How to make Thai Green Curry Paste

Blend chillies, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, galangal, makrut lime zest, basil, fingerroot (if using), prawns paste, and 120ml water in a blender on high speed, scraping down sides and adding more water if needed, until paste is the consistency of a thick salsa.

DO AHEAD: Curry paste can be made 5 days ahead. Transfer to an airtight container; cover and chill, or freeze up to 2 months.

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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