Easy Thai Red Curry
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
This Easy Thai Red Curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with minimal effort.
This Easy Thai Red Curry is perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich coconut milk base and an array of vibrant vegetables, it's both satisfying and healthy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Authentic Thai flavors with a quick prep time
- Versatile recipe that allows for your favorite vegetables
- Creamy and comforting, perfect for any occasion
A Taste of Thailand at Home
Bringing the authentic flavors of Thailand into your home kitchen has never been easier. This Easy Thai Red Curry recipe captures the essence of traditional Thai cuisine with its balance of spicy, sweet, and savory elements. The vibrant red curry paste, made from a blend of chili peppers and spices, infuses the dish with a rich flavor profile that transports your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up a delicious curry that rivals those found in bustling Thai restaurants. The creamy coconut milk adds a luxurious texture, while the fresh vegetables provide color and nutrients, making this dish both satisfying and healthy.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of this Easy Thai Red Curry is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or use up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you prefer crunchy bell peppers, sweet carrots, or tender broccoli, feel free to mix and match according to your liking. This adaptability not only makes meal planning easier but also allows for endless variations, ensuring you never get bored with the same flavors.
For those who enjoy a protein boost, consider adding tofu, chicken, or shrimp to the curry. Simply sauté your choice of protein along with the onions and garlic for a hearty meal that will keep you satisfied. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to cater to different dietary needs while still delivering an unforgettable taste experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a special occasion, this Easy Thai Red Curry is a fantastic choice. Its comforting flavors and aromatic spices make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to a wide range of palates. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Moreover, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week. The flavors deepen over time, making it a delicious option for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn't feasible.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Feel free to adjust the vegetables to your preference!
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Curry Paste
Stir in the minced garlic and red curry paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Incorporate Coconut Milk and Broth
Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add Vegetables
Add your mixed vegetables to the pot, cooking for about 10 minutes or until they are tender.
Finish the Curry
Stir in the soy sauce and lime juice. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serve hot with jasmine rice for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Easy Thai Red Curry experience, consider serving it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa. The grains will absorb the rich, creamy curry sauce, creating a delightful balance on your plate. For an added crunch, top the dish with roasted peanuts or cashews, which will provide a lovely texture contrast.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the dish's flavors. Simply sprinkle some on top just before serving to add a burst of freshness. Additionally, consider offering lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their curry, brightening the flavors even further.
Storage and Reheating
Storing your Easy Thai Red Curry is simple and convenient. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it out for easy meal options later on.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the curry gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk if it appears too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until hot. Just be sure to check the temperature to avoid overheating.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Thai Red Curry is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of mixed vegetables provides a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy diet. Bell peppers, for example, are rich in vitamin C, while broccoli offers fiber and antioxidants, contributing to overall wellness.
Coconut milk, though creamy and rich, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy. Additionally, the spices in red curry paste, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish not just a treat for your taste buds but also beneficial for your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables in this curry?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you like or have on hand.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Easy Thai Red Curry is completely vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this curry spicier?
Yes, you can add more red curry paste or include fresh chili peppers to increase the heat.
Easy Thai Red Curry
This Easy Thai Red Curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and red curry paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add your mixed vegetables to the pot, cooking for about 10 minutes or until they are tender.
Stir in the soy sauce and lime juice. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g