Healthy Thai Red Fish Curry: A Gluten and Dairy-Free Feast

Ingredients:

For the Curry Paste:

• 2-3 dried red chilies, soaked in warm water
• 1 small shallot, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1-inch piece of galangal or ginger, chopped
• 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped (use the white part)
• 1 kaffir lime leaf (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (optional, omit if you need it strictly vegetarian/vegan)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon coconut sugar or brown sugar

For the Curry:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 pound (450g) firm white fish fillets (like cod, halibut, or snapper), cut into chunks
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable or fish stock
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving (make sure it's gluten-free)

Instructions:

1. Make the Curry Paste:

   • Drain the soaked chilies and blend all the curry paste ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth. Add a little water if needed to help blend.

2. Cook the Curry:

   • Heat the coconut oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
   • Add the curry paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable or fish stock, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Add the Vegetables:

   • Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and green beans to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Fish:

   • Gently add the fish chunks to the curry and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and opaque.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce or lime juice if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh basil and cilantro leaves.
   • Serve hot with jasmine rice and lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious, gluten-free, and dairy-free Thai Red Fish Curry!