What is Different Between 'Red | Green | Yellow' Thai curries?
By Sho @ Hungry for Thai
on
Jun 19th 2025 
Thai curries, particularly red, green, and yellow, are distinct in their color, spice level, and the specific ingredients used in their curry pastes. While all generally use coconut milk as a base, the nuances of their pastes create very different flavor profiles.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Thai curries so unique (and addictively delicious!), you’re not alone.
From spicy red to herby green and mellow yellow, each curry has its own personality.
Whether you’re new to Thai food or just want to know which curry fits your vibe, this guide is for you!
What Is Thai Curry?
Thai curry is a flavorful dish made with a Thai curry paste, coconut milk, protein (like chicken, beef, or tofu), and a mix of veggies and herbs.
It’s warm, bold, and packed with the kind of flavor that hits all the right notes—spicy, sweet, savory, and creamy.
Thai Curry Paste – The Secret Sauce!
Each curry starts with its own unique Thai curry paste, made from pounding together chilies, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, galangal, and other aromatics.
If you’re curious about Thai herbs, explore these 20 essential Thai herbs and spices used in traditional cooking. This beginner’s guide highlights popular Thai ingredients.
You can make Thai curry pastes fresh or buy pre-made curry pastes at Asian markets or online.
💡 Here are Thai Curry Recipes You’ll Love:
Thai Red Curry (Gaeng Phed)
Red curry gets its bold color and heat from dried red chilies blended into the curry paste.
It’s rich, slightly sweet, and usually has a moderate to hot spice level. Beef, pork, chicken, and duck are the most common meats used in spicy curries.
Color: Deep red
Spice Level: Medium to hot
Flavor: Bold, savory, distinct chili flavor
Key Ingredients: Dried red chilies, lemongrass, galangal
Thai Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
Known as the spiciest of them all, green curry is made with fresh green chilies, giving it a vibrant green color and herbal flavor. Known for its fresh, vibrant, and herbaceous notes. Green curry is commonly eaten with steamed rice or rice noodles.
Color: Vibrant green
Spice Level: Hottest
Flavor: Bright, fresh, herbaceous, fiery
Key Ingredients: Green chilies, coriander root, kaffir lime, basil
Thai Yellow Curry (Gaeng Garee)
Mild and comforting, yellow curry gets its signature color from turmeric and curry powder. It’s earthy and slightly sweet, making it super kid-friendly and great for curry beginners.
Color: Golden yellow
Spice Level: Mildest
Flavor: Mellow, earthy, subtly sweet
Key Ingredients: Turmeric, yellow chilies, sometimes more Indian spices
Thai curries are incredibly versatile and easy to customize with your favorite proteins and veggies.
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to try all the types of Thai curry.
Whether you’re cooking at home or ordering takeout, now you’ll know exactly what you’re getting—and what makes each one so special.
