Thai yellow curry is a vibrant, aromatic dish that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and creaminess. For vegetarians, this curry offers a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Thailand without using meat or seafood.
Featuring a blend of coconut milk, turmeric, and fragrant spices, this yellow curry is both comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re a seasoned curry lover or new to Thai cuisine, this vegetarian version is easy to prepare and packed with fresh vegetables that soak up the luscious sauce beautifully.
In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of making an authentic-tasting Thai yellow curry that’s entirely plant-based. You’ll learn about the essential ingredients, equipment, and some handy tips to make your curry even better.
Plus, I’ll share serving suggestions and nutritional information so you can enjoy this delicious dish with confidence. Ready to spice up your weeknight dinners?
Let’s dive into this Thai yellow curry recipe vegetarian style!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian Thai yellow curry is a true crowd-pleaser because it’s:
- Easy to make: Uses simple, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Customizable: Swap vegetables according to your preference or season.
- Rich and creamy: Thanks to coconut milk, it’s indulgent yet dairy-free.
- Full of flavor: Turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves create authentic Thai taste.
- Hearty and filling: Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
If you love vibrant, plant-based dishes, you might also enjoy our Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 medium carrot, sliced diagonally
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 2 kaffir lime leaves (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh Thai basil or cilantro for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice or brown rice, for serving
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (coconut or canola oil preferred)
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: Wash and chop the onion, carrot, bell pepper, cauliflower, potatoes, and snap peas into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and translucent.
- Add yellow curry paste: Stir in the yellow curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ aromas.
- Pour in coconut milk and broth: Slowly add the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine with the curry paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add potatoes and carrots: Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the curry. Cook for 10 minutes, partially covered, until they start to soften.
- Incorporate remaining vegetables: Add bell pepper, cauliflower, and snap peas along with kaffir lime leaves. Stir well, cover, and simmer for another 7-10 minutes until all vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Season the curry: Add soy sauce (or tamari), brown sugar, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more curry paste for extra heat or sugar for sweetness.
- Remove kaffir lime leaves: Take out the lime leaves before serving to avoid bitterness.
- Garnish and serve: Spoon the curry over cooked jasmine or brown rice. Garnish with fresh Thai basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Tips & Variations
For the best flavor, use fresh kaffir lime leaves and fresh turmeric if you can find them. If not, dried lime leaves and turmeric powder work just fine.
- Make it vegan and soy-free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and double-check your curry paste ingredients.
- Protein boost: Add firm tofu cubes, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
- Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding fresh chili slices or more curry paste according to your taste.
- Vegetable swaps: Substitute any vegetables with what you have on hand like zucchini, eggplant, or sweet potatoes.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Cook rice directly in the curry broth for a creamy, flavorful twist.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 6 g |
Fat | 22 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sugar | 7 g |
Sodium | 580 mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and depend on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
This Thai yellow curry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant brown rice, helping to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside some rice noodles.
Complement your meal with a light cucumber salad or fresh spring rolls to balance the richness of the curry. To finish, a simple mango sticky rice dessert would offer a sweet contrast that’s authentically Thai.
For more plant-based dinner ideas, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or try our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious as a delightful dessert.
Conclusion
Making a vegetarian Thai yellow curry at home is an exciting way to enjoy authentic Thai flavors with a wholesome twist. This recipe is simple yet packed with complex spices and fresh vegetables that make each bite a delight.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
With its creamy coconut base, vibrant turmeric, and fresh herbs, this curry brings warmth and comfort to your table. Plus, it’s flexible enough to accommodate your favorite veggies or dietary needs.
Don’t forget to experiment with the spice levels and protein add-ins to make it truly your own.
For more delicious and easy vegetarian recipes, explore our collection including Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Thai Yellow Curry Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A flavorful and creamy Thai yellow curry made with a variety of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting and healthy vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in yellow curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add potatoes and carrots, cook for 10 minutes.
- Add cauliflower and green beans, cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Simmer until vegetables are tender and curry thickens.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 28 g
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