Thai Curry Guide: Red, Green, Yellow & Massaman Explained
Confused by Thai curry? Learn the difference between red, green, yellow, Panang, and Massaman curry — flavor, heat level, and which to order at your local Thai restaurant.
Walk into any Thai restaurant and you'll see four or five curries. They look similar but they're built from different curry pastes.
Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
The spiciest classic — fresh green chilies, Thai basil, kaffir lime. Bright, herbaceous, fiery.
Red Curry (Gaeng Phed)
Built from dried red chilies — earthier, deeper, slightly sweeter than green. Pairs with chicken or duck.
Yellow Curry (Gaeng Karee)
Mild, golden, with turmeric and curry powder. A gateway curry.
Panang Curry
Thicker, creamier, slightly sweet with crushed peanuts and kaffir lime. Less soupy than red curry.
Massaman Curry
Muslim-Thai roots — cinnamon, cardamom, potatoes, peanuts. CNN once named it one of the world's best dishes.
Try our Roasted Duck Red Curry — call 781-936-5142.
Hungry yet?
Order your favorites or reserve a table at Cozy Pho & Thai and taste the dishes from this guide.