#panang

When making a Thai curry, boiling potatoes and carrots ahead of time and then adding them to the coconut milk, meat, and curry paste (Green, Panang, etc) may take longer than sticking to quick-cook vegetables like eggplants and green peppers. However, this extra step will likely be rewarding. Potatoes are immensely satisfying, as they are high in starch, and the carbohydrate structure provides a steady release of energy that essentially triggering a biological "all is well" signal in our brains. The state of Idaho in the USA is known for potatoes. The soil is ideal for growing Russet and also Yukon Gold. In addition to potatoes, Idaho is known as an excellent spot for camping, fishing, hiking, rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking. These activities persist and thrive due to geographic isolation, mountainous terrain, and that with the exception of a minor league hockey team, it is completely void of sports franchises, keeping it off of the televised network of International consumerism. While the majority of the transplants to the region are specifically interested in the “outdoors” lifestyle, the introduction of a professional soccer team, the satiate the bored California newcomers, may jeopardize this. It is naive to think that a failed paradigm, one that individuals are running away from, might yield different results. The time it takes for rice to cook and our curry to cool presents a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the greatness of wide open spaces. 

Thai curries are defined by a vibrant balance of spice, cream, and savory depth. They are simmered in coconut milk with a protein (like chicken or tofu) and vegetables, and typically served over rice. The oldest of all Thai curries is Red, followed by Yellow, Panang, and finally Green, the youngest of the family. The vibrant green color comes from the chilies. The base-paste is made with fresh green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and shallots, traditionally pounded by hand. There is an old Thai proverb that says you can judge a potential bride by the sound of her pounding curry paste—if the rhythm is steady and strong, she is diligent and capable. If the rhythm is uneven or light, it suggested she is lazy. As the saying goes: “Listen to the sound of her pounding, and you’ll know her heart."