Ingredients

  • 6 small red chili peppers soaked
  • 1 each lemongrass stalk
  • 8 each shallots
  • 1 medium onions
  • 4 slices galangal root
  • 4 each candlenuts
  • 1/2 teaspoon shrimp paste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric ground
  • 2 teaspoons coriander ground
  • 2 tablespoons shrimp pounded
  • 2 cans coconut milk
  • 1/2 pound chinese fish balls
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Method

  • Pound together chiles, lemon grass, shallots, galangal, candlenuts and shrimp paste or grind in food processor or blender, adding 1 1/2 tablespoons oil.
  • Stir in turmeric and coriander.
  • Heat remaining oil in large saucepan.
  • Add ground ingredients and fry gently, stirring frequently, 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Add dried shrimp and fry 2 minutes.
  • Remove thick coconut milk from top of unshaken can with ladle.
  • Combine remaining milks.
  • There should be 3 cups thinner coconut milk.
  • Add thin coconut milk and reserved shrimp stock to fried mixture and bring to boil, stirring constantly.
  • Add fish balls and simmer 5 minutes.
  • Add thick coconut milk and salt and simmer until gravy thickens.