Rawang Curry

Rawang Curry is a traditional Thai curry that visually resembles Panang curry. However, it uses a green curry paste combined with fresh turmeric and lemongrass. It has a slightly thick, almost stir-fried consistency, with a rich, mellow flavor from coconut milk, fragrant Thai herbs, seasoned with fish sauce and palm sugar. Before serving, its garnished with fresh red chilies and torn kaffir lime leaves for added color.

Origins: Multiple Theories for Rawang Curry

The origin of Rawang Curry has several stories passed down through generations.

• Dvaravati Theory: Some texts believe it originated from the Dvaravati period, as archaeological evidence suggests cooking tools indicating the use of coconut milk in cooking, which aligns with Rawang Curry's main ingredients.
• Indonesian (Javanese) Influence: Other accounts suggest it might have been influenced by Indonesia (Java), via Southern Thailand. This is because Rawang Curry closely resembles Rendang, a famous Indonesian dish, in appearance, taste, and cooking method. It's believed that this dish might have entered Thailand when King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) first visited Java between March 27, 1870, and April 15, 1871. His Majesty visited Batavia (present-day Jakarta) and Central Java, where Rendang was very popular at the time. It is said that his entourage likely brought Rendang back to Thailand to be re-cooked, using green curry paste and renaming it Rawang Curry.
• Evolution from Panang Curry: The last theory suggests that Rawang Curry evolved from Panang curry. Ancient Panang curry recipes included turmeric, similar to Rawang Curry, but Rawang Curry specifically uses green curry paste, and modern Panang curry no longer includes turmeric.

Unique in Literature and Thai Way of Life

Despite its somewhat ambiguous history, Rawang Curry is considered a unique traditional Thai dish, often appearing in literature and historical dramas, reflecting the lifestyle and culinary culture of ancient Thais. For instance, in the literary work Khun Chang Khun Phaen, Rawang Curry is mentioned as a dish favored by Nang Phimphilalai. Even in the movie Buppesannivas 2 (Love Destiny 2), Rawang Curry is also mentioned.

Historically, Rawang Curry was often made from beef, but nowadays, it has evolved to use other meats such as pork, chicken, and fish.

Currently, Rawang Curry is a rare dish, not commonly found in general restaurants. It is usually found in traditional Thai restaurants.