Thai Green Curry Paste

Ingredients

• 10 -12 green chilies, deseeded and finely chopped
• 2 fresh lemongrass, stalks trimmed and outer layer removed, finely chopped
• 2 inches fresh gingerroot, peeled and finely grated
• 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 4 shallots, finely chopped
• 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 1 large handful
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, 1 handful
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 limes, juice and zest of
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper