Step 1

1.Place coriander seeds in a dry pan over medium-high heat and cook, shaking the pan frequently so they don’t burn, for 1–2 minutes or until fragrant. Transfer to a mortar. Repeat with cumin seeds. Use a pestle to grind both spices to a fine powder. Transfer the spice mixture to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2

2.Place green chillies into a mortar and use a pestle to pound to a smooth-ish paste. Add each of the following ingredients separately, pounding well after addition: lemongrass, galangal, makrut lime peel, shallots and garlic. Stir through the shrimp paste and ground spice powder.

Step 3

3.To cook the curry, heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Fry the curry paste for 1–2 minutes or until fragrant. Add coconut milk and ½ cup water, then bring to a simmer.

Step 4

4.Add the chicken and bring the liquid back to a simmer. Add the bamboo shoots, eggplants, makrut lime leaves and dried red chillies (if using). Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked. Add the fish sauce and sugar. Taste and add more if necessary. Stir through the Thai basil.

Step 5

5.Serve with steamed rice.