Red Curry Pork is a classic Thai dish that combines tender slices of pork with a fragrant red curry sauce made from coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, and aromatic herbs. Known for its creamy texture and bold flavors, this curry delivers the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, salty, and savory notes that Thai cuisine is famous for.

Easy to prepare and packed with authentic Thai flavors, Red Curry Pork is a popular choice for family dinners and restaurant menus throughout Thailand. Served with steamed jasmine rice, it makes a satisfying and comforting meal.

What Makes Red Curry Pork Special?

Pork is particularly well-suited to Thai red curry because its natural richness complements the creamy coconut sauce. As the pork simmers, it absorbs the flavors of the curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai basil, creating a dish that is both flavorful and aromatic.

The addition of vegetables such as bamboo shoots and bell peppers adds texture and freshness, making every bite balanced and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Curry

  • 500g pork loin or pork shoulder, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 1 cup coconut cream
  • 1 cup bamboo shoots, drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, torn
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 red chilies, sliced
  • 1 handful Thai basil leaves

For Serving

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Curry Paste

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large saucepan over medium heat.

Add the red curry paste and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.

Step 2: Add Coconut Milk

Pour in half of the coconut milk and stir continuously until the curry paste is fully dissolved.

Allow the mixture to simmer gently.

Step 3: Build the Curry Sauce

Add the remaining coconut milk and coconut cream.

Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Season the Curry

Add:

  • Fish sauce
  • Palm sugar
  • Kaffir lime leaves

Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce becomes fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Pork

Add the sliced pork to the curry.

Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and fully cooked.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Add the bamboo shoots and bell peppers.

Simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 7: Finish with Herbs

Add Thai basil leaves and sliced red chilies.

Cook for 1 minute until the basil softens and releases its aroma.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the curry to serving bowls.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot with steamed jasmine rice.

Chef’s Tips

Choose the Right Cut of Pork

Pork shoulder provides a richer flavor and tender texture, while pork loin offers a leaner option.

Simmer Gently

Avoid boiling the curry vigorously, as gentle simmering helps keep the pork tender.

Balance the Flavors

Taste the curry before serving and adjust fish sauce, sugar, or chilies as needed to achieve the perfect Thai balance.

Use Fresh Herbs

Fresh Thai basil and kaffir lime leaves are essential for authentic flavor and aroma.

Flavor Profile

Red Curry Pork offers:

  • Rich and tender pork
  • Creamy coconut milk sauce
  • Medium spicy heat
  • Savory and slightly sweet flavors
  • Fresh herbal notes
  • Bright citrus aroma from kaffir lime leaves

The result is a warming and deeply satisfying curry that showcases the heart of Thai cuisine.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork provides:

  • High-quality protein
  • Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
  • Vitamin B6
  • Zinc
  • Iron

Combined with vegetables and herbs, this dish becomes a balanced and nourishing meal.

Variations

Pineapple Red Curry Pork

Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tropical contrast to the savory pork.

Red Curry Pork with Eggplant

Include Thai eggplant for a traditional Thai-style version with extra texture.

Spicy Red Curry Pork

Add fresh bird's eye chilies for a hotter and more intense curry.

Red Curry Pork and Green Beans

Add green beans for additional crunch and color.

What to Serve with Red Curry Pork

This curry pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Coconut rice
  • Thai cucumber salad
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Fresh spring rolls
  • Thai iced tea

Final Thoughts

Red Curry Pork is a delicious and comforting Thai curry that combines tender pork, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic red curry paste into a dish full of bold and balanced flavors. Whether served for a casual family meal or a special gathering, this curry offers an authentic taste of Thailand that is sure to impress.

With its rich sauce, fragrant herbs, and satisfying texture, Red Curry Pork remains one of the most beloved curries in Thai cuisine and a recipe worth adding to your collection.