Spicy vegetables

Spicy Vegetable Curry with Coconut Milk – An Explosion of Flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Do you want a meal full of color, flavors, and nutritional benefits? Then spicy vegetable curry with coconut milk is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also pays homage to culinary traditions from around the world, where vegetables are cooked with aromatic spices to create a unique and savory experience. Plus, it's perfect for fasting days or for those who want a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients

For the vegetable curry:
- 100 g carrots, sliced
- 100 g potatoes, diced
- 100 g green beans, chopped
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 100 g cauliflower, broken into small florets
- 100 ml coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Salt, to taste

For the spicy paste:
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 cm ginger, grated
- 1 chili pepper, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel
- 100 g tomatoes, diced

Preparation

1. Prepare the spicy paste:
Start by preparing the spicy paste. Place the garlic cloves, grated ginger, chili pepper, fennel, and diced tomatoes in a blender. Blend until you get a smooth paste. If you prefer a finer consistency, you can add a tablespoon of water.

2. Sauté the vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and chopped chili pepper, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the carrots and spices:
Add the sliced carrots to the pot, along with the chili powder, coriander, and turmeric. Mix well and let everything sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

4. Incorporate the potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes, mix well, and cover the pot with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the vegetables cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add the cauliflower and green beans:
After 10 minutes, add the cauliflower and green beans to the pot. Pour in the spicy paste prepared earlier, mix well, and cover the pot again. Let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb all the flavors.

6. Finish the dish:
Once the vegetables are cooked, turn off the heat and add the coconut milk. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Chef's Tip

To intensify the flavors, you can add a few fresh coriander or parsley leaves before serving. These will not only add a pleasant appearance but also enrich the dish's flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the variety of vegetables used. Carrots, cauliflower, and green beans are excellent sources of antioxidants, while coconut milk provides healthy fats that support heart health. Additionally, the dish is low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace coconut milk with something else?
Yes, you can use almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free version, but the taste will be slightly different.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?
If you're not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce the amount of chili pepper used or omit the spicy paste altogether.

What can I serve this dish with?
This spicy vegetable curry pairs perfectly with basmati rice or quinoa. It can also be served with flatbreads or pita for a complete meal.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. You can also incorporate tofu or tempeh to add a source of protein.

A personal note: I love to serve this dish alongside a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a contrast of textures and flavors, as well as to add a touch of freshness.

In conclusion, this recipe for spicy vegetable curry with coconut milk is not just a delicious meal but also an exploration of flavors and culinary cultures, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it and personalize your recipe with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy!