4Thai green chiliesroughly chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
3mediumshallotsroughly chopped
6clovesgarlic
1tablespoonfresh galangalroughly chopped
2stalks lemongrassbottom third only, outer layers removed, roughly chopped
4kaffir lime leavescenter stems removed
2tablespoonsfresh cilantro stemsroughly chopped
½teaspoonkosher salt
2–3tablespoons waterto blend
Instructions
Toast the coriander seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to darken. Let cool.
Add all paste ingredients — Thai green chilies, shallots, garlic, chopped galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, cilantro stems, toasted coriander seeds, and salt — to a blender or food processor.
Add 2 tablespoons of water and blend into a rough paste, scraping down the sides as needed.
Add the third tablespoon of water only if needed to get things moving. The paste should be thick and fragrant, not watery.