Paya curry is one of the most soulful, aromatic, and heritage-rich dishes enjoyed across South Asia. At Shalimar in Phuket, this classic curry holds a special place on our menu, thanks to its deep flavors, slow-cooked richness, and comforting warmth. Our chefs prepare paya curry with care, patience, and traditional methods that retain its authentic essence. Whether you are craving a hearty meal or exploring regional dishes, this curry offers a memorable dining experience.
In this article, we share the origins, cooking technique, and unique characteristics of this dish, along with a detailed paya curry recipe that reflects the flavors served at Shalimar.
The Essence of Paya Curry
Paya curry refers to a slow-cooked stew made using tender trotters, infused with spices, herbs, and simmered gravy. Known for its velvety texture and bold taste, the curry is served as a nourishing dish often enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice. While variations exist—like mutton paya curry, lamb paya, and beef paya—the heart of the dish remains the same: a rich, aromatic broth that results from long, slow cooking.
At Shalimar, our version is balanced, flavorful, and perfectly suited for guests who love traditional cuisine.
Ingredients Used in Traditional Paya Curry
The beauty of this dish lies in its combination of simple yet powerful ingredients. Common components include:
- Paya (usually mutton or beef)
- Onions and tomatoes
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaves
- Slow-roasted spice blends
- Fresh coriander
- Green chilies for optional heat
The slow simmering brings out a deep, comforting flavor, making it one of the most treasured dishes in classic South Asian cooking.
Paya Curry Recipe – The Shalimar Style
Below is a restaurant-style preparation method that mirrors the style and flavor served at Shalimar:
Ingredients
- Paya (cleaned and prepped)
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder
- Whole spices
- Fresh coriander
- Salt to taste
- Water for slow cooking
Method
- Preparing the Base
Heat a pot and add oil. Sauté sliced onions until golden brown, then add ginger-garlic paste. Once the raw aroma fades, add tomatoes and cook until soft. - Adding Spices
Mix in turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Roast the spices until fragrant. - Cooking the Paya
Add the paya pieces and coat them with the masala. Allow the mixture to cook for several minutes so the flavors blend. - Slow Simmering
Pour enough water to cover the paya and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for several hours. The slow cooking ensures the paya becomes soft and the gravy thickens beautifully. - Final Touch
Garnish with chopped coriander. For a richer flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon or some green chilies.
This slow-cooked method guarantees a deep, satisfying taste similar to what we proudly serve at Shalimar.
Serving Suggestions
Paya curry is best enjoyed with:
- Fresh naan
- Steamed rice
- Soft roti
- Khameeri roti
The creamy, gelatinous texture of the curry pairs beautifully with soft breads and enhances every bite.
Why Shalimar’s Paya Curry Stands Out
At Shalimar, we follow traditional techniques passed down across generations. Our chefs allow the curry to simmer for hours, giving it the authentic richness guests expect. The spices are balanced, not overpowering, ensuring each bite is warm, flavorful, and satisfying.
Whether you’re visiting Phuket or living locally, this dish offers a wholesome experience that reflects the warmth of home-style cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
how to make mutton paya curry?
Slow cook cleaned mutton trotters with onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, and spices. Allow it to simmer for hours until the gravy thickens and the paya becomes tender.
how to make paya curry?
Start by preparing a base of sautéed onions and tomatoes, add spices, mix in the paya, and cook it on low heat for several hours to develop deep flavor.
what is paya curry?
It is a traditional curry made using trotters, cooked slowly with spices to create a rich, gelatinous, and aromatic gravy.
how to cook beef paya curry?
The process is similar to mutton paya but may require longer simmering time. Slow cooking is essential to make beef paya soft and flavorful.
how to make paya curry thick?
Allow the curry to reduce on low heat, mash some of the cooked onions and tomatoes, or simmer uncovered to achieve a thicker consistency.