Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and quick to make? Look no further! This recipe for a delicious and easy Indian vegetarian dinner will become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire. It's perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies those cravings for homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. This is one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and simple.
Aromatic Vegetable Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant vegetable curry is packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk. It's a healthy meal, brimming with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes! This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, and seasoned cooks will appreciate its speed and delicious results.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, cauliflower, potatoes – your favorites!)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom Spices: Add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala to the pan. Stir well and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step significantly enhances the flavor of your curry.
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Add Vegetables and Liquid: Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir to coat them with the spices. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Season with salt to taste.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the curry with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with cooked rice or naan bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use freshly ground spices whenever possible.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when sautéing the vegetables. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as green beans, spinach, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Lentil Curry: Add 1/2 cup of red lentils along with the vegetables for a heartier and more protein-rich meal.
- Paneer Curry: Add cubed paneer (Indian cheese) during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a delicious vegetarian protein boost.
- Spicy Curry: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a few finely chopped green chilies for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This quick dinner recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are easy to make. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying Indian vegetarian dish! It's a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.