Description
Slow Cooker Lamb Massaman Curry
Lamb Massaman Curry is a fragrant Thai dish that brings together tender lamb, creamy coconut, and aromatic spices. Originating from the fusion of Thai and Indian cuisines, this curry is slow-cooked to perfection, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pair it with jasmine rice for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
600g lamb chuck steak, cubed
300g chat potatoes, quartered
1 brown onion, finely chopped
210g Massaman Thai curry paste
2 tbsp plain flour
2 cups chicken-style stock
400ml coconut cream
2 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 cups cooked white rice (to serve)
Directions:
1. Add onion, potatoes, curry paste, and coconut cream to the slow cooker; mix.
2. Stir in stock, fish sauce, lemon juice, and sugar.
3. Coat lamb cubes in flour; add to the pot and combine.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours until tender.
5. Serve over white rice and garnish with fresh herbs.
Prep Time: 8 hours
Kcal: 600 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof curry. First, prepare your ingredients: cube the lamb, quarter the potatoes, and finely chop the onion. In your slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, potatoes, Massaman curry paste, and the entire can of coconut cream. Stir until the paste is well distributed. Next, pour in the chicken-style stock, fish sauce, lemon juice, and brown sugar, stirring again. Place the lamb cubes in a bowl, sprinkle with the plain flour, and toss to coat evenly. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce. Add the floured lamb to the slow cooker and stir to submerge it in the liquid. Secure the lid and cook on a low setting for 8 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking. Once the time is up, the lamb should be fork-tender. Give the curry a gentle stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich curry is best served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the aromatic sauce. For garnish, fresh cilantro or Thai basil adds a bright, herbal note. A side of quick-pickled cucumbers or red onions provides a refreshing, acidic contrast. For extra texture, sprinkle with roasted peanuts or cashews. A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to adjust the tanginess to their taste.
How-to Summary
Combine onion, potato, paste, and coconut cream in the slow cooker. Add stock, fish sauce, lemon juice, and sugar. Coat lamb in flour, add to the pot, and stir. Cook on low for 8 hours. Serve over rice with fresh herbs and nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of lamb? Yes, lamb shoulder is an excellent alternative to chuck steak, as it also becomes very tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts like leg, as they can dry out.
What if I can’t find Massaman curry paste? While the flavor profile will differ, a red or yellow Thai curry paste can be used as a substitute. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Can I make this curry spicier? Absolutely. Add 1-2 thinly sliced Thai bird’s eye chilies at the beginning of cooking, or serve with chili flakes or a spicy chili oil on the side.
Is it possible to cook this on high heat? You can cook on high for approximately 4 hours, but the low and slow method yields more tender meat and deeper, blended flavors.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce has thickened too much.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. Do not skip coating the lamb in flour, as this is key for sauce thickness. Resist the urge to open the slow cooker lid during cooking, as this releases heat and steam, significantly increasing cooking time. Do not substitute coconut milk for coconut cream; the cream provides the necessary richness and body. Finally, do not add delicate ingredients like fresh herbs or peanuts until serving, as they will lose their texture and brightness during the long cook.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Lamb Massaman Curry is an achievable way to bring complex, comforting flavors into your home kitchen. The hands-off slow cooking method does the work for you, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply aromatic and tender dish. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll have a spectacular, restaurant-worthy meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious results.