Thai Red Duck Curry Recipe - Step-by-Step Guide

Master the Art of Thai Red Duck Curry at Home

If you’ve ever dined at a Thai restaurant and been enchanted by the rich, creamy flavors of a Thai Red Duck Curry, this post is for you. This exquisite dish combines succulent duck meat, fiery red curry paste, creamy coconut milk, and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and tangy—the hallmark of authentic Thai flavors.

Whether you're cooking to wow a dinner guest or just want to bring restaurant-quality Thai cuisine to your kitchen, this recipe will guide you every step of the way.

What Makes Thai Red Duck Curry Special?

Thai Red Duck Curry is a beloved dish in Thai cuisine. Known as "Kaeng Phed Ped Yang" in Thai, it traditionally uses roasted duck combined with bold red curry flavors and a hint of sweetness from tropical fruits like lychee or pineapple. The creamy texture of coconut milk paired with the heat from Thai red chilies creates a sensational taste experience.

This curry is also versatile—you can serve it with jasmine rice, roti, or even noodles for a hearty meal. The layers of flavors and aromas will transport you straight to Thailand with every bite.

Key Ingredients for Thai Red Duck Curry

Before jumping into the recipe, let's look at the key components that make this dish a masterpiece.

Essential Ingredients:

• Roasted Duck (Ped Yang): The star of the dish. Use pre-roasted duck or roast it yourself for rich, flavor-packed meat.
• Red Curry Paste (Nam Phrik Kaeng Daeng): A blend of dried red chilies, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, and more. You can buy it pre-made or make it traditionally at home.
• Coconut Milk (Ka-ti): Adds creamy richness and balances the spice.
• Lychee or Pineapple (Linchee/Sapparot): These add natural sweetness and a fruity twist.
• Thai Basil Leaves (Horapha): For a fresh, herbal aroma.
• Kaffir Lime Leaves (Bai Makrut): Gives a citrusy fragrance that's distinctively Thai.
• Fish Sauce (Nam Pla): Adds depth and saltiness.
• Palm Sugar (Nam Tan Peep): Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
• Vegetables (Optional): Cherry tomatoes, baby eggplants, or bell peppers add color and texture.

Pro-tip:

Using authentic Thai ingredients whenever possible will give you the most authentic flavor. Check your local Asian grocery store or import ingredients online.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Thai Red Duck Curry

Now, let's get down to business. Here's how to create this unforgettable dish:

Serves:

4 people

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 500g roasted duck, sliced
• 3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar
• 1/2 cup lychee (canned or fresh)
• 3 kaffir lime leaves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
• 1 red chili, sliced (for garnish)
• Cooked jasmine rice (to serve)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Duck

If you're using pre-roasted duck, cut it into bite-sized slices or chunks. If roasting fresh duck, season it with a pinch of salt and roast in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. Once done, remove the meat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Curry Paste

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of coconut cream (the thick layer from your coconut milk) and cook until it starts to separate and release its oil. This is a crucial step in Thai cooking that deepens the flavor of the curry.

Once the oil rises, add the red curry paste and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.

Step 3: Add Coconut Milk

Pour in the rest of the coconut milk and water, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Duck and Seasonings

Add the roasted duck slices to the curry, followed by fish sauce, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Stir well and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 5: Add Lychee and Vegetables

Gently fold in lychee (or pineapple), cherry tomatoes, and other vegetables (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the curry sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Herbs

Turn off the heat and stir in Thai basil leaves. Garnish the dish with sliced red chili for an extra kick and visual appeal.

Best Pairings for Thai Red Duck Curry

This rich and flavorful curry shines brightest when paired with the following:

• Jasmine Rice (Steamed): Its fragrant aroma complements the robust flavors of the curry.
• Flatbreads or Roti (Optional): Perfect for scooping up every last bit of the dish.
• Thai Iced Tea or Coconut Water (Drink): Cool and refreshing beverages to balance the spice.

Pro Tips for Perfect Curry Every Time

1. Control the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red curry paste.
2. Balance the Flavors: Thai cooking is all about balance—taste your curry as you cook and adjust the palm sugar, fish sauce, and lime to your liking.
3. Don’t Skip Fresh Ingredients: Kaffir lime leaves and fresh Thai basil make a significant difference in aroma and flavor.

Take Thai Cuisine to the Next Level!

Congratulations—you’ve just learned how to create one of the most iconic dishes in Thai cuisine. Thai Red Duck Curry is a symphony of flavors, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a world-class meal at home.

If you’re a foodie or home cook looking to master authentic international recipes, bookmark this guide and start exploring. We'd love to hear about your cooking experience—share your success (or questions) in the comments below!