Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This curry green bean recipe is a delicious and easy way to spice up your weeknight meals. It’s packed with fresh flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals you can easily make at home. Perfect for those looking for simple food recipes, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Prep the Green Beans: Wash and trim the green beans. You can snap off the ends or use a knife – whatever method you prefer. For a more tender result, you can blanch the beans briefly before adding them to the curry. Simply boil them for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened, then drain immediately and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromatic oils. This process, called blooming, enhances the flavor of the spices.
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Add Green Beans and Liquid: Add the green beans (blanched or raw) to the skillet and stir to combine with the spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
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Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. Stir in the coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness. This delicious dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or naan bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Curry Green Beans:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder and cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder curry, reduce the amount of spice. For a spicier kick, add more.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter curry, you can use light coconut milk, but the texture will be slightly thinner.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked green beans will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp green beans with a slight bite.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the curry.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes.
- Lemon Juice: Substitute or supplement lime juice with a squeeze of lemon for added acidity.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, rich in vitamins and fiber from the green beans. The exact nutritional information will vary based on the ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving would offer a moderate amount of calories, protein, and healthy fats, making it a great choice for a delicious and satisfying meal. For precise nutritional information, you can use an online nutrition calculator. This easy and healthy meal is an excellent example of best recipes for those seeking delicious dishes and homemade cooking solutions.
This curry green bean recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal options. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!