If you’re just beginning to explore Thai cooking, the world of curry pastes can feel confusing. Red, green, yellow, spicy, mild—what does it all mean? Luckily, cooking Thai food at home becomes incredibly easy when you have the right curry paste. And when that paste is organic, vegan, and part of the growing category of gluten free Asian foods, it becomes even better for everyday cooking.
This guide highlights the top 5 Thai curry pastes from Mekhala Living, chosen for their clean ingredients, balanced flavors, and beginner-friendly profiles. No complicated recipes here—just clear taste notes to help you confidently pick the curry paste that suits your flavor style.
And yes—every curry instantly becomes more enjoyable with a finishing touch of gluten free crispy onions or crispy fried onions vegan, which add irresistible crunch to any dish.
Why Beginners Love Mekhala Living Curry Pastes
Mekhala Living is known for creating organic, allergen-friendly pastes inspired by traditional Asian flavors. What makes them ideal for new cooks?
- All pastes are vegan, organic, and gluten-free
- Simple, clean labels with real herbs & spices
- Reliable flavors without overpowering heat
- Easy to use even if you’ve never cooked Thai food before
- Perfect for building bowls, quick meals, and healthier home cooking
When paired with toppings like gluten free crispy onions, the result tastes gourmet without any extra effort.
1. Mekhala Yellow Curry Paste – Warm, Gentle & Beginner-Proof
If you’re sensitive to spice or completely new to Thai flavors, yellow curry paste is the smoothest introduction.
Taste Profile
- Mild and cozy
- Slight hint of sweetness
- Warm spices like turmeric, coriander & cumin
- Creamy and inviting
This paste works beautifully for anyone wanting a soft, comforting curry. Add crispy fried onions vegan on top for a satisfying crunch.
2. Mekhala Red Curry Paste – Classic & Perfectly Balanced
Red curry paste is the most recognized in Thai cuisine, making it a great everyday option for beginners ready to try something richer.
Taste Profile
- Medium spice
- Deep, savory flavor
- Slight smokiness
- Works with almost any vegetable or protein
This is the “go-to” curry paste when you want that familiar Thai restaurant aroma at home.
3. Mekhala Green Curry Paste – Fresh, Bright & Aromatic
Green curry paste brings a lively, herbal energy to your meal. It’s ideal for those who enjoy fresh, green flavors and a slightly higher level of heat.
Taste Profile
- Fragrant basil and kaffir lime aroma
- Medium to medium-high spice
- Bright, citrusy freshness
- Light but bold at the same time
The brightness of this curry pairs incredibly well with toppings like gluten free crispy onions, which add a rich contrast to the herbal base.
4. Mekhala Lemongrass Turmeric Paste – Light, Clean & Fragrant
This paste isn’t a traditional Thai curry paste, but it is one of the easiest bases for beginners who prefer mild, aromatic flavors.
Taste Profile
- Citrusy lemongrass
- Warm turmeric
- Very gentle heat
- Clean, fresh, golden flavor
It’s perfect for lighter meals, broths, or easy coconut-based dishes when you want flavor without intensity.
5. Mekhala Southeast Asian (Massaman-Style) Paste – Nutty, Mellow & Comforting
This paste offers a different kind of Thai flavor—richer, cozier, and inspired by the warm spices used in Massaman curry.
Taste Profile
- Mild spice level
- Nutty depth, slightly sweet
- Warm notes of cinnamon and cardamom
- Thick, hearty flavor ideal for comfort food
Beginners love it because it feels familiar, gentle, and satisfying without being spicy.
How to Choose the Right Paste as a Beginner
Here’s the simplest way to pick your ideal curry:
- Very mild flavor: Yellow
- Classic Thai profile: Red
- Fresh & herbal: Green
- Light & fragrant: Lemongrass Turmeric
- Rich & cozy: Massaman-style
Whatever you choose, adding a small handful of gluten free crispy onions or crispy fried onions vegan on top instantly elevates the dish. They’re a must-have pantry item for anyone who loves gluten free Asian foods with added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Thai cooking doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With high-quality, organic, and allergen-friendly pastes like those from Mekhala Living, beginners can create aromatic, comforting meals with very little effort. Each paste brings a unique personality—mild, bold, fresh, or cozy—making it easy to find the flavors you love.
Whether you’re building a simple curry bowl, meal-prepping for the week, or exploring gluten free Asian foods for a healthier lifestyle, these five curry pastes are the perfect place to start.