How to Make Vietnamese Seafood Curry

Vietnamese seafood curry, known as "curry hai san," is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully combines the fresh tastes of seafood with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. Cooking this delightful dish at home is easier than you might think. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make Vietnamese seafood curry.

Ingredients

To make Vietnamese seafood curry, you'll need the following ingredients:

500g of mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, and fish fillets)
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
2 tablespoons of curry powder (preferably Vietnamese curry powder)
1-2 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 tablespoon of sugar
Fresh herbs (like cilantro or basil) for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Start by cleaning your seafood. If you're using shrimp, peel and devein them. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces. Set the seafood aside. This preparation is crucial for keeping the seafood fresh and allowing it to absorb the curry flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Curry Powder

Stir in the curry powder, mixing it with the aromatic mixture. Cook for another minute to release the spices' oil and enhance the flavor. The rich colors and scents are the hallmark of a good curry base.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Coconut Milk

Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir well, ensuring they are coated in the curry mixture. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.

Step 5: Add the Seafood

Once the potatoes are tender, gently add your prepared seafood to the pot. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the fish apart. Let the curry simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Season the curry with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference. Remember, the balance of flavors is essential, so adjust slowly and taste as you go.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once your Vietnamese seafood curry is ready, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a bright finish. Serve the curry hot with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Seafood Curry

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the seafood in a bit of fish sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
Feel free to customize the vegetables by adding bell peppers, carrots, or eggplants based on your preference.
If you like your curry spicier, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili paste during cooking.

Making Vietnamese seafood curry is not only a satisfying culinary experience but also a great way to impress your family and friends with a dish that is both vibrant and delectable. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a comforting meal at any time!