Curry Club at Thai Basil – Aug 2024

While Masonic activities take a pause for the summer, our Lodge of Honour Curry Club carries on. In fact, the Curry Club in August saw some 9 members and friends attending which is more than the average. We met this time at Thai Basil on Walcot Street.

Our August 2024 Curry Club meet-up took us to the vibrant and inviting Thai Basil on Walcot Street, Bath, renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, the evening was set to be a memorable culinary adventure.

What We Sampled

Thai Basil’s menu offered a dazzling array of authentic dishes, and we savored a delightful variety of them during our visit.

Gang Kiew Wan Chicken (Green Curry Chicken): A must-try for lovers of Thai cuisine, this dish featured tender chicken pieces bathed in a rich, aromatic green curry sauce. The perfect harmony of creamy coconut milk, fragrant Thai basil, and the punch of green chilies created a beautifully balanced dish. The spice level was just right, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate without overwhelming the taste buds.

Panang Beef: This classic curry was a true highlight. Tender slices of beef were slow-cooked in a flavorful Penang curry sauce, which was thick and creamy with a hint of sweetness from coconut milk. The dish had a delightful depth of flavor, with subtle notes of kaffir lime and peanut complementing the richness of the beef.

Gai Pad Takrai (Chicken Stir-fried with Lemongrass): This dish was a fragrant celebration of Thai flavors. The chicken was stir-fried with aromatic lemongrass, providing a citrusy brightness that perfectly complemented the savory sauce. It was light yet bursting with fresh flavors, making it a refreshing contrast to the richer curries we enjoyed.

Gai Pad Bai Krapraow (Chicken Stir-fried with Thai Basil): Another standout, this dish featured succulent chicken stir-fried with Thai basil and chilies. The aromatic basil added a fresh, peppery note, while the chilies provided just the right amount of heat. It was a simple yet flavorful dish that showcased the essence of Thai street food.

Nua Pad Namman Hoi (Beef Stir-fried with Oyster Sauce): For lovers of hearty and savory stir-fries, this dish was a delight. The tender beef was coated in a rich oyster sauce, delivering a deep umami flavor that paired well with the crisp vegetables. It was a comforting dish, perfect for those seeking familiar and satisfying flavors.

Pad Pak Ruam Mitr (Mixed Stir-fried Vegetables): A colorful and nutritious mix of stir-fried vegetables, this dish was a perfect balance to the richer meat dishes. The fresh, crunchy veggies were stir-fried in a light sauce, allowing their natural flavors to shine through.

Pad Thai with Prawns: This classic Thai noodle dish did not disappoint. The stir-fried rice noodles were cooked to perfection, tossed with succulent prawns, crunchy bean sprouts, and a delicious tamarind sauce that balanced sweet and savory flavors. Topped with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime, it was a delightful explosion of taste and texture.

Soft Shell Crab Papaya Salad: This dish was a showstopper. The crispy, golden soft-shell crab sat atop a bed of tangy, spicy papaya salad. The combination of textures—from the crunch of the crab to the refreshing bite of the green papaya—was extraordinary. The salad’s vibrant flavors of lime, chili, and fish sauce made it a refreshing yet bold dish.

Sundries

Khao Suay (Steamed Jasmine Rice): A classic accompaniment to Thai dishes, the steamed jasmine rice was fragrant and perfectly fluffy, soaking up the sauces and curry juices beautifully.

Khao Pad Khai (Egg Fried Rice): This simple yet flavorful dish was a hit with our group. The fluffy rice was lightly fried with egg and aromatic seasonings, making it a delightful and comforting side.

Bha Mee Pad Khai (Egg Noodles Stir-fried with Egg): The stir-fried egg noodles were light and springy, tossed with just enough egg to add richness without being too heavy. This dish was a perfect complement to the richer curries and stir-fries we enjoyed.

Lively Conversations & New Discoveries

As always, the camaraderie among Curry Club members was at the heart of the evening. Between sharing bites of curry and noodles, we discussed our favorite dishes, debated the merits of different Thai spices, and even ventured into comparisons between Thai and Indian curries. The relaxed atmosphere of Thai Basil allowed for lively conversations and new discoveries about Thai cuisine, with everyone leaving the restaurant with a newfound appreciation for its depth and complexity.

Looking Ahead

The August 2024 gathering at Thai Basil was a delightful and delicious experience, adding another layer of culinary exploration to our Curry Club’s diverse adventures. We look forward to the next outing, where more unique flavors and memorable evenings await.

Lodge of Honour Curry Club

Join us for the next Lodge of Honour Curry Club as we continue our culinary adventures! Gather your family and friends for an evening of great company and delicious flavors at some of the best local spots. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to try something new, it’s the perfect chance to explore, share, and enjoy incredible dishes together. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars and come hungry!