Massaman curry is often called “the world’s most delicious curry,” and in recent years, its popularity has spread to over 50 countries worldwide. Now that it’s become possible to make Massaman curry not only at specialty restaurants but also at home, the demand for Massaman curry paste has grown approximately threefold in just the past few years.
Even so, many people find themselves confused by the sheer amount of information out there when they actually try to make it: “What’s the difference between store-bought and homemade paste?” “Which spices should I choose to get closer to the authentic taste?” “I don’t know which brand to pick…”—sound familiar?
In this article, we’ll thoroughly explain how to choose, use, and customize Massaman curry paste, from a detailed comparison of major brands to a scientific recipe for homemade paste, all based on real cooking data and insights from experts.
By reading to the end, you’ll discover tips for easily recreating authentic Thai flavors and finding the perfect dish for you.
- Essential Knowledge and Allure of Massaman Curry Paste – In-Depth Information and Global Recognition
- Ingredients and Spice Details of Massaman Curry Paste – In-depth Look at the Science of Ingredients and Cooking Techniques
- The Role of Traditional Spices and Ingredients – Effects and Selection of Coriander, Cumin, Cardamom, Tamarind, and More
- How to Make Homemade Massaman Curry Paste – From Ingredient Preparation to Cooking Methods (Mortar & Pestle / Food Processor)
- Differences from Store-bought Pastes and Substitute Spices/Seasonings – Suggestions for Alternatives and Flavor Adjustment
- Brand Comparison and Buying Guide for Store-Bought Massaman Curry Pastes
- Detailed Analysis of Major Brands – Flavor, Price, and Ingredients of Mae Ploy, Maesri, Blue Elephant, and More
- Where to Buy Store-Bought Pastes – In-Store and Online Purchase Information (Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart, etc.)
- Vegan & Gluten-Free Product Information – How to Choose and Product Recommendations for Health-Conscious Users
- How to Cook with Massaman Curry Paste and Recipe Ideas – From Basics to Creative Arrangements
- How to Store and Manage the Quality of Massaman Curry Paste – Tips for Long-Term Storage, Freezing, and Using It Up
- Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting – Q&A Collection to Solve Common Issues
- Recommended Store-Bought Products Ranking and Comparison Table – Visual Information to Help You Choose
- Advanced Techniques for Enjoying Dishes Made with Massaman Curry Paste – Expert Tips and Applications
- Conclusion – A Recap of the Appeal and Uses of Massaman Curry Paste
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Essential Knowledge and Allure of Massaman Curry Paste – In-Depth Information and Global Recognition
What Is Massaman Curry Paste? – A Detailed Look at Its Ingredients, Flavor Profile, and Role
Massaman curry paste is the fundamental seasoning that creates the traditional curry flavors of southern Thailand. Key ingredients include spices such as coriander seed, cumin, cardamom, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg, along with chili peppers, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, galangal, and shrimp paste. These spices together draw out a complex and deep aroma with a mellow sweetness, and when combined with coconut milk, they create a uniquely rich and full-bodied flavor.
Below are the main ingredients and their characteristics.
| Ingredient | Role / Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Coriander seed | Floral aroma and sweetness |
| Cumin | Subtle bitterness and spicy fragrance |
| Cardamom | Refreshing and elegant flavor |
| Clove | Rich aroma with a hint of sweetness |
| Cinnamon | Sweet and warming fragrance |
| Chili pepper | Spicy accent |
| Lemongrass | Clean, citrusy aroma |
| Shrimp paste | Adds umami and depth |
Brands like “maesri” and “mae ploy” are available commercially, and in recent years, these can be easily purchased at supermarkets and online stores such as Whole Foods, Amazon, and Walmart.
The History and Cultural Background of Massaman Curry – Including Differences from Other Thai Curries
Massaman curry is a dish deeply influenced by the Islamic culture of southern Thailand. It was born in the 17th century when Persian and Indian spice cultures were introduced to Thailand. Unlike traditional Thai curries such as red curry or green curry, Massaman curry often features beef or chicken, reflecting the influence of Hinduism and Islam.
The main differences from other Thai curries are as follows:
- A wide variety of spices: Many spices of Indian or Middle Eastern origin are used.
- Sweetness and richness stand out more than spiciness: Coconut milk, peanuts, and cashews are signature ingredients.
- Religious background: Pork is not used; beef, chicken, and sometimes vegan options are chosen.
With this historical background, Massaman curry stands out from other Thai curries with its milder, more exotic flavor.
Global Recognition and Reasons for Its Popularity – Why It’s Called “the World’s Most Delicious Curry”
The reason Massaman curry has received such worldwide acclaim lies in its well-balanced taste and deep aroma. The complex harmony of spices, the smoothness of coconut milk, and the richness of peanuts and cashews all come together, leading many gourmet rankings to honor it as “the world’s most delicious curry.”
To summarize, the reasons for its popularity are:
- A perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and acidity
- Depth and richness of spice aroma
- Gentle mouthfeel from coconut milk
- Excellent compatibility with a wide variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, and vegetables
- Growing range of vegan recipes, accommodating dietary diversity
The reason Massaman curry is beloved not only in its native Thailand but also in restaurants and homes around the world lies in this harmonious blend of flavors and aromas, its historical background, and its adaptability to diverse food cultures.
Ingredients and Spice Details of Massaman Curry Paste – In-depth Look at the Science of Ingredients and Cooking Techniques
The Role of Traditional Spices and Ingredients – Effects and Selection of Coriander, Cumin, Cardamom, Tamarind, and More
Massaman curry paste is characterized by its unique aroma and richness, even among Thai dishes. The main spices and ingredients include coriander seeds (refreshing aroma and deep flavor), cumin (earthy, toasted notes), cardamom (subtly sweet fragrance), and tamarind (tangy acidity and deep umami). Other spices such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lemongrass, and galangal are also included.
The following table summarizes the main spices and their roles.
| Spice/Ingredient | Role/Effect |
|---|---|
| Coriander seeds | Adds freshness and aroma, balances the overall profile |
| Cumin | Provides earthy, toasty depth |
| Cardamom | Lends a subtle sweetness and refreshing note |
| Tamarind | Adds acidity and richness |
| Cinnamon | Sweet and warming aroma |
| Lemongrass | Gives a fresh, zesty note |
| Galangal | Adds a sharp bite and distinct flavor |
For best results, use fresh spices—this will achieve a more aromatic and authentic flavor.
How to Make Homemade Massaman Curry Paste – From Ingredient Preparation to Cooking Methods (Mortar & Pestle / Food Processor)
Homemade paste is especially fragrant. Prepare the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 3 cardamom pods
- 2 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 teaspoons tamarind paste
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 1 piece galangal
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 shallots
- 2 dried red chilies
- 20g peanuts
- Salt, fish sauce to taste
Instructions
- Dry-roast the spices until aromatic, then let them cool slightly.
- Using a mortar and pestle or food processor, thoroughly grind all ingredients into a paste.
- Adjust seasoning with fish sauce or salt as needed.
Using a mortar and pestle takes a bit more time, but leaving some texture in the paste enhances its aroma. With a food processor, you can quickly achieve a smooth and uniform paste.
Differences from Store-bought Pastes and Substitute Spices/Seasonings – Suggestions for Alternatives and Flavor Adjustment
Store-bought Massaman curry pastes (for example: Maesri, Mae Ploy) are attractive because they allow you to easily recreate authentic flavors at home. On the other hand, homemade paste offers the advantage of being able to adjust the aroma and spiciness to your liking.
A comparison of store-bought and homemade pastes is shown below.
| Item | Store-bought Paste | Homemade Paste |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Somewhat mild | Fresh and strong |
| Convenience | High | Requires prep and effort |
| Adjustability | Low | Highly customizable |
Substitutable Spices/Seasonings
- If you don’t have coriander or cumin, you can substitute with garam masala.
- For tamarind, adjust the sourness using lemon juice plus sugar.
- If you don’t have fish sauce, soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
Adding coconut milk or peanut butter to store-bought paste will result in a richer finish. If you want to tone down the spiciness, reduce the amount of chili and add some sweetness to adjust. Feel free to arrange it to your own taste and enjoy.
Brand Comparison and Buying Guide for Store-Bought Massaman Curry Pastes
Detailed Analysis of Major Brands – Flavor, Price, and Ingredients of Mae Ploy, Maesri, Blue Elephant, and More
Store-bought Massaman curry pastes vary in flavor, ingredients, and price depending on the brand. Here’s a table comparing representative brands and their main features.
| Brand Name | Flavor Characteristics | Key Ingredients | Size and Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mae Ploy | Rich and mild, well-balanced spice and sweetness | Lemongrass, galangal, cinnamon, etc. | 400g approx. 600–900 yen |
| Maesri | Spicy and rich, authentic Thai taste | Chili, tamarind, cardamom, etc. | 100g approx. 300–500 yen |
| Blue Elephant | Elegant aroma, slightly premium feel | No additives or artificial seasonings | 70g approx. 600–800 yen |
Tips for Choosing
- For a mild flavor, go with Mae Ploy
- For authentic Thai spiciness, choose Maesri
- For additive-free or premium options, Blue Elephant is recommended
Where to Buy Store-Bought Pastes – In-Store and Online Purchase Information (Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart, etc.)
Massaman curry paste is available at a variety of places. Here’s a summary of easy ways to get it.
Main Places to Buy
- Asian grocery stores and international food supermarkets
- International food sections of major supermarkets (Whole Foods, Walmart, etc.)
- Online shops (Amazon, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping)
- Some drugstores and chain supermarkets like Kroger
Buying Tips
- If there are no specialty stores nearby, Amazon or Walmart online is convenient
- There’s a wide variety of brands and sizes, making price comparison easy
- Many overseas brands are parallel imports, so check stock and shipping costs
Vegan & Gluten-Free Product Information – How to Choose and Product Recommendations for Health-Conscious Users
In recent years, with the rise of health awareness, there is increasing demand for vegan and gluten-free Massaman curry paste.
Tips for Choosing
- Check the ingredients list to make sure it doesn’t contain shrimp paste or fish sauce
- Choose products labeled “vegan” or “gluten-free”
Recommended Products
- Blue Elephant: No animal ingredients, gluten-free
- Some Mae Ploy and Maesri products: Vegan versions available
- Searching online for “vegan massaman curry paste” offers a wide selection
Notes
- Vegan and gluten-free types are usually more expensive than regular ones
- The flavor may differ slightly depending on the product, so checking reviews is reassuring
With more products available, even those who are health-conscious or have allergies can enjoy Massaman curry with peace of mind. By choosing a paste that suits your lifestyle and preferences, you can enrich your daily dining experience.
How to Cook with Massaman Curry Paste and Recipe Ideas – From Basics to Creative Arrangements
Basic Usage and Classic Recipes – How to Make Massaman Curry with Chicken, Beef, or for Vegetarians
Massaman curry paste is an all-purpose seasoning that lets you easily recreate one of Thailand’s most popular curries at home. Main ingredients typically include chicken or beef, potatoes, onions, and coconut milk. For vegetarians, recipes using tofu or vegetables are also recommended.
Below is a typical list of ingredients and steps.
| Ingredient | Approximate Amount | Substitute Example |
|---|---|---|
| Massaman curry paste | 50g | Other brands acceptable |
| Chicken or beef | 300g | Tofu or soy meat |
| Potato | 2 | Sweet potato |
| Onion | 1 | Japanese leek |
| Coconut milk | 400ml | Soy milk + coconut oil |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp | Soy sauce |
- Heat oil in a pot and sauté the curry paste to bring out its aroma.
- Add meat or vegetables and fry thoroughly, then add coconut milk and simmer.
- When the potatoes are tender, adjust the flavor with fish sauce and sugar.
The key to authentic flavor is to slowly sauté the paste over low heat to fully bring out the fragrance of the spices.
Creative Recipes and Ideas – Soups, Stir-fries, Pastas, and More Versatile Uses
Massaman curry paste is useful for much more than just curry. It’s perfect for soups, stir-fries, and pasta sauces as well. Here are some easy adaptation examples:
- Soup: Dilute the paste and coconut milk with chicken stock, add your choice of ingredients (chicken, vegetables, mushrooms, etc.), and simmer for an instant ethnic soup.
- Stir-fry: Sauté the paste in oil, then add meat or vegetables for a spicy Thai-style stir-fry.
- Pasta: Toss boiled pasta with Massaman curry paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce for an original Asian-inspired pasta.
The paste can be stored in the refrigerator, so keeping some on hand makes it easy to incorporate into your daily meals.
Flavor Adjustment Techniques – How to Control Heat, Depth, and Spice Additions
The flavor of Massaman curry can be easily adjusted at home. Here are some techniques to freely customize the heat and richness:
- Adjusting Spiciness
・For more heat, add chili peppers or chili powder.
・For a milder taste, add coconut milk or regular milk. - Tips for Greater Depth
・Adding peanut butter or cashews creates a richer, deeper flavor.
・A squeeze of lemon or lime at the end adds a refreshing accent. - Recommended Additional Spices
・A touch of cinnamon, clove, or cardamom will give your curry a more authentic Thai taste.
Since the saltiness and spice level can vary by brand and type of paste, be sure to adjust the seasoning little by little as you go.
How to Store and Manage the Quality of Massaman Curry Paste – Tips for Long-Term Storage, Freezing, and Using It Up
Massaman curry paste is a convenient seasoning for recreating authentic Thai curry flavors at home. By thoroughly managing storage and quality after purchase, you can preserve its aroma and flavor for longer and enjoy it to the last bit. Below, we explain in detail the tips for refrigerating and freezing, shelf life, and important points for maintaining quality.
Storage Period and Methods – Proper Refrigeration, Freezing, and Shelf Life Guidelines
Massaman curry paste can maintain its flavor for a long time if properly stored after opening. The table below summarizes general storage methods and shelf life guidelines.
| Storage Method | Approximate Storage Period | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | About 1 month | Use a clean spoon and store in an airtight container |
| Freezing | 3–6 months | Divide into portions, wrap, and place in a sealed bag or container |
When refrigerating, it is important to keep the paste from being exposed to air as much as possible after opening. For freezing, dividing it into smaller portions saves the hassle of thawing and lets you use only what you need immediately. If unopened, you can store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight, but once opened, always choose either refrigeration or freezing.
- Use a clean spoon every time
- Freeze in single-use portions
- Refer to the manufacturer’s stated expiration date
Tips for Maintaining Quality During Storage – How to Preserve Aroma and Flavor
Proper quality control is essential to preserve the flavor and aroma of massaman curry paste. The aromatic components of the spices are sensitive to air, moisture, and light, so please pay attention to the storage environment.
- Store airtight: The paste oxidizes easily when exposed to air, losing its flavor, so always use a container that can be tightly sealed.
- Use a dry, clean spoon: Moisture or contaminants from other foods can cause mold or spoilage.
- Avoid temperature changes: Rather than the refrigerator door pocket, it is best to store it in the back where the temperature is more stable.
- Freeze in small portions and use up quickly: Only take out the amount you need at one time, and return the rest to the freezer immediately.
If you notice any significant change in the color or aroma of the paste, or if there is mold or an unusual smell, do not use it. By ensuring proper storage, you can enjoy the authentic flavor of massaman curry paste to the very last use.
Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting – Q&A Collection to Solve Common Issues
Questions About Ingredients and Substitutes – Handling Questions Like “What is massaman curry paste made of?”
Massaman curry paste is a seasoning with a unique aroma and richness, even among Thai curries. The main ingredients are as follows.
| Ingredient | Main Role |
|---|---|
| Lemongrass | Adds a refreshing aroma and flavor |
| Galangal | Provides earthy aroma and depth |
| Cardamom | Sweet and spicy fragrance |
| Cinnamon | Warm, sweet aroma |
| Cumin seeds | Distinctive umami and spiciness |
| Coriander seeds | Refreshing aroma and nuttiness |
| Cloves | Strong aroma and deep richness |
| Red chili pepper | Sharp spiciness |
| Garlic | Enhances flavor and umami |
| Shrimp paste | Adds umami and depth |
If you’re looking for substitutes, consider the following ideas:
- Add cinnamon, cardamom, and peanut butter to red curry paste
- Adjust green curry paste with extra spices and coconut milk
- Miso or anchovy paste can be used as a substitute for shrimp paste
For vegan options, simply omit the shrimp paste or replace it with a plant-based umami seasoning.
Common Cooking Mistakes and How to Fix Them – Troubleshooting Blandness, Excessive Spiciness, and More
When making massaman curry at home, it’s common to struggle with balancing the flavors and achieving the right finish. Here are some typical issues and their solutions.
| Common Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Bland flavor | Add more paste or fish sauce, and simmer for a longer time |
| Too spicy | Add coconut milk or sugar to mellow out the heat |
| Lacking aroma | Top with roasted spices or peanuts at the end |
| Lacking richness | Increase the amount of peanut butter, cashews, or coconut milk |
| Ingredients too firm | Cut into smaller pieces and simmer thoroughly |
When cooking, keep the following points in mind:
- Sauté the paste slowly over low heat to bring out its aroma
- Heat the coconut milk over medium or lower heat to prevent separation
- Add ingredients in order from those that cook the quickest
By following these steps, you’ll find it much easier to make a well-balanced massaman curry with minimal risk of failure.
Recommended Store-Bought Products Ranking and Comparison Table – Visual Information to Help You Choose
Massaman curry paste lets you easily enjoy authentic Thai curry at home, and each brand has its own distinct features and flavors. When making a purchase, carefully compare price, availability, and flavor balance to ensure satisfaction. Here, we introduce pointers for choosing a product, along with a comparison table summarizing popular brands, their prices, and features.
Brand-by-Brand Comparison Table: Price, Flavor, and Availability – A Detailed Overview at a Glance
| Brand Name | Net Weight | Price | Flavor Characteristics | Availability | Main Retailers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maesri | 100g | Around ¥250 | Authentic, strong spice flavor, mild heat | High | Amazon, KALDI, Asian grocery stores |
| Mae Ploy | 400g | Around ¥600 | Well-balanced richness and sweetness, nutty | Medium | Amazon, Rakuten, Gyomu Super |
| Aroy-D | 400g | Around ¥700 | Mild and not too distinctive, beginner-friendly | Medium | Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart |
| Thai Kitchen | 113g | Around ¥500 | Mild flavor, gluten-free | Slightly low | Whole Foods, Amazon |
- Maesri is highly recommended for those who want a strong spice profile and a genuine taste of Thailand.
- Mae Ploy pairs exceptionally well with coconut milk and is chosen for making rich, indulgent curry.
- Aroy-D has a mild flavor with no strong quirks, making it a safe choice for those using massaman curry paste for the first time.
- Thai Kitchen is popular as an allergy-friendly product, favored by those with a health-conscious mindset.
Recommended Products with User Reviews and Experiences
Looking at the feedback from people who’ve actually tried each brand makes the differences in flavor and convenience even clearer.
- Many who chose Maesri praise its “authentic spice aroma” and say it pairs perfectly with chicken and potatoes. The combination of convenience and deep flavor is especially highly rated.
- Mae Ploy users often comment that “the paste is rich and, once you add coconut milk, you get a restaurant-quality taste.” Its large size and cost performance are also popular reasons for choosing it.
- Aroy-D fans appreciate that it’s “easy for the whole family to eat, with very little spiciness, so it’s fine for kids”—highlighting its reassuring mildness.
- Thai Kitchen users frequently note that it’s “gluten-free, so I can use it with peace of mind,” and “easy to get at the supermarket.”
All of these massaman curry pastes are available online or at specialty stores. Choose the product that best fits your preferences, intended use, and cooking style.
Advanced Techniques for Enjoying Dishes Made with Massaman Curry Paste – Expert Tips and Applications
Deep Knowledge and Use of Spices – Drawing Out Flavors through the Interaction of Multiple Spices
The appeal of massaman curry paste lies in its deep, layered flavors woven from a blend of multiple spices. Especially notable are cardamom, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which are combined in just the right balance. Together, they create the distinctive aroma and complexity unique to Thai curry. To maximize the character of each spice, it’s important to gently heat the paste over low heat when sautéing. This allows the aromatic compounds to fully develop, resulting in a rich flavor that stands out when combined with coconut milk.
Below is a table summarizing the main spices and their characteristics.
| Spice | Role & Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cardamom | Adds an elegant touch with its refreshing aroma and subtle sweetness |
| Clove | Its spicy, sweet fragrance deepens richness and complexity |
| Cinnamon | Spreads a mellow sweetness and warmth throughout the dish |
| Nutmeg | Imparts complexity through a hint of bitterness and sweet aroma |
| Cumin | Earthy aroma forms the foundation of the flavor |
Understanding how these spices interact provides hints for further customizing the paste or creating your own blends.
Pro Tips for Flavor Customization – Adjusting Seasoning and Application Examples to Suit Your Taste
Store-bought massaman curry paste is delicious as it is, but with just a little tweaking, you can tailor the flavor to your preference. For example, if you want to tone down the heat, adding coconut milk or peanut butter will make it milder. On the other hand, if you prefer a spicier kick, try adding dried chili or black pepper.
Key points for customization are summarized below:
- Adjusting Spiciness: Control the heat by increasing coconut milk or adding chilies as desired
- Adding Sweetness: Palm sugar or honey brings out a deep, Thai-style sweetness
- Enhancing Richness: Peanut butter or cashews create a richer, more robust flavor
- Adding Tartness: Tamarind paste or lemon juice provides a refreshing, tangy accent
- Ingredient Variations: Not just chicken or beef—try tofu, root vegetables, or vegan-friendly ingredients for great results
With these applications, the range of recipes you can make with massaman curry paste expands dramatically. Adjust the seasoning to suit your own or your family’s tastes, and enjoy creating your very own original massaman curry.
Conclusion – A Recap of the Appeal and Uses of Massaman Curry Paste
Review of Knowledge and Benefits Gained from This Article
Massaman curry paste is a traditional spice blend originating from southern Thailand. Its main ingredients are coriander, cumin, cardamom, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, chili, lemongrass, garlic, and shallots, all expertly combined to create a deep richness, unique sweetness, and aromatic spice profile. In recent years, many brands have become available, with popular options like Mae Ploy and Maesri stocked in Asian grocery stores, online retailers, and the international sections of supermarkets.
The table below compares major brands, where to buy them, and their features.
| Brand | Key Features | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Mae Ploy | Mild and richly flavored classic | Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart |
| Maesri | Authentic with a sharp spicy kick | Amazon, Kroger, Asian groceries |
| Aroy-D | Pairs exceptionally well with coconut milk | Amazon, local supermarkets |
Using the paste is simple—just simmer with coconut milk, chicken, potatoes, peanuts, onions, and more for an authentic massaman curry you can enjoy at home. By marinating the vegetables or meat beforehand, or adjusting the spiciness and sweetness, you can easily customize the flavor to your liking.
Massaman curry paste isn’t limited to curries—it’s also great in stir-fries, soups, noodles, and a wide variety of dishes, giving you plenty of recipe options. There are even vegan-friendly pastes with no animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for a range of dietary lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is it made from?
The main ingredients are spices like coriander and cumin, chili peppers, garlic, lemongrass, and more. - How is it different from other curry pastes?
Massaman curry paste contains a lot of sweetly fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it milder and richer compared to Thai red curry paste. - Are there any substitutes?
You can get a similar flavor by adding cinnamon and nutmeg to red curry paste or yellow curry paste. - Where can I buy it?
It’s available at Amazon, Walmart, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Asian grocery stores.
With massaman curry paste, you can easily enjoy authentic Thai curry at home. Bring a new splash of spice to your everyday meals and feel free to try out a variety of creative adaptations.
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