Gaeng Phed Ped Yang – Thai Roasted Duck Curry
Table of Contents
Roasted Duck Curry - An Elusive Gem
In Thailand, amid the bustling streets known for their vibrant street food culture, certain exquisite dishes are surprisingly elusive. One such dish, a unique and flavorful curry, typically garners attention for its distinctive taste and preparation style. It’s often discovered in local Thai restaurants, where it might be highlighted as a specialty by the serving staff. The process of making this curry involves traditional techniques and authentic ingredients, which, when replicated with precision, can result in a dish that rivals the quality of those found in Thai eateries. This has led to its increasing popularity among aficionados of Thai cuisine, who appreciate its complex flavors and the culinary skill it requires.
The Origins
Thais are known to prepare duck dishes in numerous ways and most of them consist of roasted meat. Similarly, this dish uses the same concept, making it relatively easier if you get your hands on some pre-roasted duck from the market. Influenced by various Asian cuisines, the recipe of this dish has been passed on to generations, making your bowl of Gaeng Phed Ped Yang a historical masterpiece.
The combination of various herbs and spices followed by other ingredients, creates a hearty dish that does not use much oil or other harmful additives. Therefore, enjoy a guilt-free bowl of goodness consisting of the iconic blend of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors that ensures to light up family dinners and gatherings with friends!
Ingredients to Prepare Gaeng Phed Ped Yang:
- Red curry paste – 2 tablespoons
- Full-fat coconut cream – 1½ cups
- Fresh duck meat or roasted duck
- Thai chilies – 2-4pcs
- Palm sugar/ brown sugar – 1½ tablespoons
- Thinly sliced kaffir lime leaves – 3pcs
- Small pineapple chunks – 150g
- Water – ½ cup
- Tomatoes – 2pcs
- Fish sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Light soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
- Optional: salt & pepper
Cooking Instructions
Roasting the Duck (optional step):
- If opting to make this curry using fresh duck, start by washing the meat and rubbing it with salt and pepper over its surface. Using a bit of fish sauce to season the chicken would also boost its flavor, but this would be entirely optional.
- Place the duck into a preheated oven, and let it roast at 180 degrees Celsius for an hour and a half or till it appears golden and cooked.
- After it’s finished roasting, let it sit out for approximately 10 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized slices. The meat can be sliced according to your preferred choice, but generally in Thailand, you get pieces of meat that are roughly 2 inches long.
Preparing the curry:
Heat one cup of coconut cream over low-medium heat while stirring continuously to avoid staining the pan. This should be done for 2-3 minutes or until the coconut thickens and separates from its oils.
Add the red curry paste and stir until the coconut cream turns bright orange. Once it’s well-mixed, add the remaining coconut cream and let it simmer over low heat for a few minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the sliced duck and half a cup of water. Stir gently until the ingredients are combined.
Slice or pound the chilies using a knife and add to the curry followed by the pineapple and tomatoes. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes over medium heat.
Finally, stir in the palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, and kaffir lime leaves. Do a quick taste test and add more fish sauce, sugar, or other seasoning as desired. Then, turn off the heat, and it’s ready to serve! You may add a few slices of chopped chili to garnish if you wish.
Tips For a More Authentic Flavor
To prepare an authentic Thai roasted duck curry at home that mirrors the exquisite taste and presentation of a traditional Thai restaurant, choosing the right ingredients is key. Using Nittaya Thai Curry red curry paste is highly recommended. Our high-quality curry paste is renowned for its fresh, well-balanced flavors, elevating your dish well above the ordinary. Nittaya’s curry paste assures a homemade touch, ensuring your Thai roasted duck curry not only tastes authentic but also looks as appealing as those served in a classic Thai eatery. Cumin and coriander seeds can be added.
