If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both hearty and entirely plant-based, this vegan ca ri recipe is a must-try! Originating from Vietnamese cuisine, ca ri is a fragrant curry stew that beautifully balances aromatic spices with fresh vegetables and creamy coconut milk.
This version swaps out traditional meat for wholesome vegan ingredients, making it perfect for those seeking a delicious, cruelty-free meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dabbling in plant-based cooking, this ca ri recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to impress guests.
The rich, warming spices combined with tender vegetables create a satisfying texture and depth of flavor that warms the soul. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or what’s in your pantry.
Ready to dive into a bowl of vibrant, vegan goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegan Ca Ri is a fantastic dish for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the blend of turmeric, ginger, and other spices that infuse the dish with warmth and depth.
The creamy coconut milk helps to mellow the spices and create a luscious, silky sauce that coats every bite.
This recipe is also nutrient-dense, packed with a colorful variety of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. It’s naturally gluten-free and oil-light, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
Plus, it’s very versatile—you can add tofu, mushrooms, or chickpeas to boost protein content or swap veggies based on what you have on hand.
Best of all, this vegan ca ri is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. It stores beautifully, tastes even better the next day, and freezes well, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (preferably Vietnamese or mild yellow curry powder)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Heat the coconut oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Mix in the curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander. Toast the spices for 1 minute to release their flavors, stirring constantly.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, butternut squash, and bell pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
- Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Add soy sauce and maple syrup. These ingredients balance the curry with a touch of umami and sweetness.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the lid and taste the curry. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra protein boost, add cubed firm tofu or cooked chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of simmering. You can also swap the vegetables based on seasonality or preference—eggplant, green beans, or zucchini work great!”
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding a diced chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like heat. If you want a thicker curry, mash some of the potatoes into the sauce or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
For a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. This ca ri also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm flatbreads to soak up the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Fat | 20 g (mostly from coconut milk) |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Protein | 6 g |
Sugar | 8 g (natural sugars from vegetables and maple syrup) |
Sodium | 400 mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium broth and soy sauce) |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan ca ri is best enjoyed served over fragrant jasmine rice or steamed basmati rice. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Adding a side of fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich curry.
To make it a complete meal, serve alongside crispy spring rolls or a simple green salad dressed with lime and sesame oil. You might also enjoy it with Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula for a light but flavorful vegan complement.
Conclusion
Creating this vegan ca ri recipe at home is a wonderful way to explore the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine while keeping things plant-based and wholesome. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and tender vegetables makes for a comforting and nourishing meal that’s perfect any time of the year.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Plus, it’s easily adaptable, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also want to check out other delicious plant-forward dishes like the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the cozy Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Ca Ri Recipe Vegan
Description: A flavorful Vietnamese-style vegan curry with vegetables and tofu. Easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 cup pumpkin, diced
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 400 ml coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
- Add carrots, potato, pumpkin, tofu, coconut milk, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 30 g
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