Can you use olive oil in Thai curry cooking?

Here's why:

* Traditional Oils: Thai cuisine typically uses coconut oil, vegetable oil, or palm oil for their high heat tolerance and neutral flavor. These oils are readily available in Thailand and have been used for centuries in their cooking.

* Olive Oil Flavor: Olive oil has a distinct, slightly bitter flavor that can overpower the delicate flavors of many Thai curries.

* Smoke Point: While olive oil has a relatively high smoke point, it can still smoke if heated to too high a temperature, affecting the taste of your curry.

However, if you only have olive oil on hand, you can use it:

* Substitute in Small Amounts: Use a small amount of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) for sautéing the aromatics in your curry paste.

* Choose a Mild Olive Oil: Opt for a mild, extra virgin olive oil to minimize the olive flavor in your curry.

* Combine with Other Oils: Mix olive oil with a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil for a more traditional flavor profile.

Ultimately, the best oil to use for your Thai curry depends on your personal preferences and what you have available. If you want the most authentic flavor, stick to traditional Thai oils like coconut oil. But if you only have olive oil, you can still make a delicious curry by using it judiciously.