Fragrant Curry Paste

Ingredients :

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 shallot, chopped

4 dried red chilies, seeded and chopped

1 thick stalk lemon grass, chopped

3 coriander roots, chopped

1 kaffir lime leaf, torn

4 black peppercorns, cracked

1/2 teaspoon shrimp paste

finely grated zest 2 kaffir limes

Method :

1. Using a pestle and mortar or small blender, pound or mix together garlic, shallot, chilies, lemon grass and coriander roots.

2. Add lime zest, lime leaf, peppercorns and shrimp paste and pound or mix to a smooth paste.

3. Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Makes about 4 tablespoons.