Panang Curry (Red Curry)

Curry is India’s greatest gift to Thai cuisine. The Thais improved on the idea by adding local flavors such as lemongrass, galangal, and shrimp paste. The end product is curry with a thick, almost gravy-like consistency with bold flavors that are perfectly complemented with chunks of meat.

Panang curry has a fiery red color – to lure you in and warn you at the same time. Every spicy spoonful of red curry ends on a sweet note, thanks to the rich coconut milk incorporated into the sauce. Eat panang curry the only way Thais do – with a hefty serving of jasmine rice.

Here are the best places to have panang curry in Bangkok:

• THON KRUENG RESTAURANT | Sukhumvit
  For one of the most extensive Thai menus in Bangkok
  What to order: Panang curry, Banana blossom salad, Yum tawai
  Price range: 120 to 400 baht ($3.46 to $11.54)
  When: 11:00 – 22:30 (Daily)
  Where: 211/3 Sukhumvit Soi 49/13, Bangkok
• THE LOCAL | Wattana
  For rare classical Thai recipes
  What to order: Gaeng tai pla, Panang curry, Prawns in tamarind sauce
  Price range: 180 to 400 baht ($5.19 to $11.54)
  When: 11:30 – 14:30 (Lunch); 17:30 – 23:00 (Dinner)
  Where: 32-32/1 Soi Sukhumvit 23, Wattana, Bangkok
• NAMSAAH BOTTLING TRUST | Bang Rak
  For curries and cocktails in a 100-year old villa
  What to order: Beef panang curry, Salmon tartare tacos, Mango chili mojito
  Price range: 200 to 380 baht ($5.77 to $10.96)
  When: 17:30 – 02:00 (Daily)
  Where: Soi 7, 401 Si Lom, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok