Thai Curry with Hyacinth Beans
Thai Curry with Hyacinth Beans is a savory, aromatic dish from Thailand featuring tender hyacinth beans (known as 'tua fak yao') simmered in a rich coconut milk-based curry paste. It typically includes ingredients like red or green curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, and sometimes chicken or shrimp, creating a balance of spicy, sweet, and umami flavors. This dish is a staple in Thai home cooking and street food, showcasing the country's love for fresh vegetables and complex curry blends.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from coconut milk and beans, while providing a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. A typical serving offers around 300-400 calories, along with key nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and iron from the vegetables and legumes.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 25 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Iron | 3.2 mg |
| Calcium | 95 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 µg |
| Folate | 65 µg |
| Manganese | 1.1 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Hyacinth beans are a traditional ingredient in Thai cuisine, valued for their crisp texture and ability to absorb curry flavors, and they're nutritionally interesting for their high fiber and antioxidant content. Culturally, this dish reflects Thailand's emphasis on balancing flavors and using seasonal vegetables in curries, often served with jasmine rice to create a complete meal.
