Gaeng Hang Lay (Northern Thai Pork Curry)

Experience the bold and aromatic flavors of Northern Thailand with Gaeng Hang Lay, a rich pork curry infused with ginger, garlic, and a unique blend of spices. Traditionally slow-cooked to tender perfection, this dish is perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests with authentic Thai flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• 3-4 dried red chilies (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

   In the same pot, add sliced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.

3. Add Spices and Curry Paste

   Stir in the red curry paste, turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release the aromas.

4. Simmer the Curry

   Return the pork to the pot. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, tamarind paste, palm sugar, coconut milk, and water or broth. Stir well to combine. Add dried chilies and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.

5. Adjust Seasoning

   Taste the curry and adjust with additional fish sauce, sugar, or tamarind to balance salty, sweet, and sour flavors.

6. Serve

   Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for added freshness.

Serving

Gaeng Hang Lay is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. Its rich, aromatic sauce pairs beautifully with rice, and its tender pork melts in your mouth, delivering a true taste of Northern Thai cuisine.