In the vibrant culinary landscape of San Antonio, Thai Curry stands out as a reminder of the rich offerings from Southeast Asian cuisine. Despite the growing popularity of artisan pizzas and South Indian stews, the charm of Thai food remains enticing.
Rediscovering Thai Cuisine
For years, I have neglected the subtle and vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, failing to have a go-to restaurant. Recently, when asked about my favorite Thai place, I realized I didn’t have one. I couldn’t even remember the last time I enjoyed a dish like Panang curry or green papaya salad.
A conversation with a friend led me to Thai Curry, a restaurant on Broadway that had somehow escaped my notice for over two years. While I am unsure if it will become my new favorite, it’s a welcome start on my journey of culinary redemption.
First Impressions
Upon entering, the restaurant’s neutral décor fails to make a strong impression. The appetizer list resembles those of many other local Thai spots. While there’s a cheese roll with “curry flavored” cream cheese, I opted to avoid that choice in favor of something more authentic.
A Taste of Duck Salad
Diving into the menu, we chose a duck salad as an appetizer, priced at $30. This was a refreshing departure from the typical crispy calamari. The dish impressed us with perfectly cooked duck, featuring crisp skin and succulent meat. The toasty cashews added a delightful crunch, while a splash of lime balanced the dish’s chili heat. We ordered a level three on the spice scale, which could have handled a bit more kick, but we were warned about the potent marinated chili served as a condiment.
The Art of Thai Curries
Thai curries are typically soupier compared to Indian versions, and Thai Curry offers six types. One standout is the green curry, which allows a choice of proteins, including beef, tofu, soft shell crab, and duck. The green curry features a coconut milk base that provides a rich, creamy texture. The beautifully cut vegetables, such as zucchini and eggplant, nearly outshone the sliced chicken breast we selected. Again, a touch more heat would have been welcome, but the flavor built slowly.
Exploring Red Curry
The red curry, available on the lunch special menu, was satisfying without additional heat requests. I ordered it with shrimp, which came in ample portions. Surprisingly, the addition of cubed pineapple was a pleasant surprise. A side of fried rice, infused with egg and toasted garlic, complemented the dish perfectly—though I’d suggest skipping the egg roll.
Unique Flavors: Tamarind Sauce
While curries and classic soups like Tom Yum and Tom Kha are expected, I discovered something unique on the menu: tamarind sauce. This fruity and tangy sauce paired with fried pork created a heavenly combination. Simple steamed vegetables elevated the dish, making it far superior to any typical sweet and sour option.
The Ultimate Test: Green Papaya Salad
No exploration of Thai cuisine is complete without trying green papaya salad, a dish I have adored in the past. Thai Curry offers an E-San version, known for its bold flavors and sticky rice. When I inquired about it, I was warned that it might be “stinky.” Naturally, I had to order it.
The “stink” comes from an anchovy-based fish sauce, which adds an intriguing depth without being overwhelming. A squeeze of lime balanced the crunchy green papaya and fiery chilies, enhanced by shrimp and shredded carrots. This dish offers a compelling challenge for anyone looking to test their palate with authentic world cuisine.
Conclusion
Thai Curry in San Antonio is a reminder of the diverse and rich flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. From expertly crafted duck salad to the refreshing and bold green papaya salad, this restaurant invites diners to rediscover the pleasures of Thai food. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer, Thai Curry provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the vibrant world of Thai cuisine.
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