Chinese curry is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the warmth of traditional curry spices with the unique textures and ingredients found in Chinese cuisine. For vegetarians, this dish is a perfect way to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with vibrant taste.
It features fresh vegetables simmered in a fragrant curry sauce that balances spice, sweetness, and umami in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary adventurer, this Chinese curry recipe vegetarian version is simple to prepare and endlessly customizable to suit your pantry and taste preferences.
This recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with something exotic yet comforting. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Let’s dive into making this delicious, aromatic, and wholesome Chinese curry that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chinese curry vegetarian is a wonderful blend of bold spices and fresh vegetables that creates a unique, comforting dish.
The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or add tofu for extra protein.
It’s a wholesome, one-pot meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for meal prepping.
Unlike some curries, this one strikes a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors that appeal to all palates.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (preferably Chinese curry powder, if available)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
- Cooked jasmine rice or steamed noodles, to serve
Equipment
- Large wok or deep skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium bowl for prepping vegetables
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Sprinkle in the curry powder and turmeric. Stir well to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger with the spices, cooking for another minute to release their aromas.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, cauliflower, green beans, and mushrooms. Toss everything together to combine with the spiced onion mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to dissolve the tomato paste and distribute the flavors evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Stir in the coconut milk and frozen peas. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the peas to heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning or add more curry powder if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro, if using.
- Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or alongside your favorite noodles for a fulfilling meal.
Tips & Variations
“For a creamier curry, substitute half the coconut milk with a dollop of cashew cream or silken tofu blended smooth.”
- Feel free to add tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
- Swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, baby corn, or bamboo shoots depending on availability.
- To make it spicier, add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili powder along with the curry powder.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 8 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese curry is best enjoyed hot, served over fragrant jasmine rice or alongside steamed rice noodles for a more filling meal.
For added texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top before serving.
Pair it with a simple cucumber salad or a side of stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach to add freshness and balance.
To explore more vegetarian-friendly dishes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or for a sweet twist, try the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.
Conclusion
This Chinese curry vegetarian recipe offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will delight both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. By using a variety of fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy curry sauce, you create a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and wonderfully comforting.
The recipe’s flexibility allows you to adapt it to your personal tastes or seasonal produce, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises warmth and nourishment in every bowl. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the exotic flavors of Chinese cuisine without the hassle of complicated ingredients or techniques.
Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add exciting flavors to your meals. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Curry Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A flavorful and aromatic vegetarian Chinese curry packed with vegetables and spices. Perfect as a hearty meal served with rice or noodles.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup green peas
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 400 ml coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Add potatoes, carrot, bell pepper, and cauliflower; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in curry powder and cook for another minute.
- Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add green peas and soy sauce; cook for 3 more minutes.
- Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 30 g
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