Photo: Zheng Zhou · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Khua Kling
Very spicy southern Thai dry curry of minced meat stir-fried with curry paste.
Also known as Khua Kling Beef
About Khua Kling
Minced beef, pork or chicken is stir-fried in a dry pan with a pounded paste of chilies, turmeric, lemongrass, galangal and garlic until little liquid remains. The result is intensely hot, aromatic and salty, with a strong turmeric colour. Kaffir lime leaves and shaved lime peel are often added at the end.
History & Culture
Khua kling comes from southern Thai cooking, which is known for its strong use of turmeric, chilies and shrimp paste. It is a dry curry (kling) rather than a coconut-milk curry, and is among the spiciest dishes in the Thai repertoire.
Where to eat it
Eaten with steamed rice and fresh vegetables or bitter beans to balance the heat.
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Khua Kling - frequently asked questions
What is Khua Kling?
Minced beef, pork or chicken is stir-fried in a dry pan with a pounded paste of chilies, turmeric, lemongrass, galangal and garlic until little liquid remains. The result is intensely hot, aromatic and salty, with a strong turmeric colour.
What is Khua Kling made of?
Khua Kling is made with Minced beef or pork, Dried red chilies, Fresh turmeric, Lemongrass, Galangal and Garlic. Recipes vary by region and by cook, but those are the core ingredients.
Where does Khua Kling come from?
Khua Kling comes from Thailand, and is especially associated with Southern Thailand. Khua kling comes from southern Thai cooking, which is known for its strong use of turmeric, chilies and shrimp paste.
Where can I eat Khua Kling?
Eaten with steamed rice and fresh vegetables or bitter beans to balance the heat.
What else is Khua Kling called?
Khua Kling is also known as Khua Kling Beef.
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Before you go to Thailand
Round out your trip - most travellers book these alongside their trip.
More dishes like Khua Kling
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Thick, rich red curry of coconut milk, usually served with fish.
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Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, egg, peanuts and lime - sweet, sour and savoury.
Som Tam
Som tam is a Thai salad of shredded green papaya pounded with lime, fish sauce, chilli, garlic and peanuts, balancing sour, salty, sweet and hot.
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