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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Wednesday, October 25, 2006

TASTE
Fragrant kaffir lime leaves add zest to curry

 •  Ming's dynasty

By Bonnie S. Benwick
Washington Post

There is no real substitute for the striking citrus flavor of kaffir lime leaves, which can often be found in Asian markets.

JULIA EWAN | Washington Post

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You won't need coconut milk for this kind of curry but do try to find kaffir lime leaves, which finish the dish with their unusual flavor. Serve with your favorite cooked noodles. Adapted from "Lemongrass & Limes," by Naam Pruitt (Favorite Recipes Press, 2006, $26.50). Editor's note: Kaffir lime leaves are available at farmers' markets, Asian markets and in Chinatown.

SPICY GROUND BEEF WITH GREEN BEANS

  • 1/4 cup fish sauce

  • 3 tablespoons sugar

  • 2 to 3 tablespoons canola oil

  • 1/4 cup red curry paste

  • 1 pound very lean (93 percent) ground beef

  • 2 cups green beans, cut diagonally into 1- or 2-inch pieces

  • 2 tablespoons very thinly sliced kaffir lime leaves, rinsed and patted dry (optional)

    In a large measuring cup, combine the fish sauce and sugar and add 1/4 cup water. Mix well (the sugar does not need to dissolve completely). Set aside.

    Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the curry paste, and stir to combine, then add the ground beef and stir until well coated with the curry-oil mixture. Cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until the meat shows no trace of pink and appears crumbly. Add the beans and the fish sauce mixture to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook, covered, for 7 to 8 minutes or until the beans are crisp-tender. Add the kaffir lime leaves, if desired, and stir to combine. Divide among individual bowls and serve hot.

    Makes 3-4 servings.

  • Per serving (based on 4): 277 calories, 26g protein, 14g carbohydrates, 13g fat, 70mg cholesterol, 3g saturated fat, 1,498mg sodium, 2g dietary fiber