Recipe for Red Thai Curry Vegetarian That Tastes Amazing

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Red Thai curry is a vibrant, aromatic, and deeply satisfying dish that brings the authentic flavors of Thailand right into your kitchen. For vegetarians, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the rich, creamy, and spicy curry without any meat.

Loaded with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and creamy coconut milk, this red Thai curry offers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Thai cuisine or just looking to try something new and healthy, this vegetarian version is both easy to make and incredibly delicious.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests with an exotic yet comforting meal. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Serve it over jasmine rice or with warm naan to soak up that luscious sauce. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this flavorful red Thai curry vegetarian style!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red Thai curry vegetarian recipe stands out because it’s:

  • Richly flavored: The combination of red curry paste, coconut milk, and fresh herbs creates a complex and satisfying taste.
  • Highly nutritious: Packed with colorful vegetables, it’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite veggies or add tofu for extra protein.
  • Quick to prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
  • Vegan-friendly option: Simply ensure your curry paste is free of shrimp paste or fish sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons red Thai curry paste (check for vegetarian/vegan-friendly brands)
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced diagonally
  • 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Fresh basil leaves, handful
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Can opener
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Slice the onion, bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and trim the snap peas. Mince garlic and grate ginger. If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture and cut into cubes.
  2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the red Thai curry paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
  4. Pour in coconut milk: Slowly add the coconut milk, stirring well to combine the curry paste throughout. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add vegetables and tofu: Add the broccoli, carrot, bell pepper, snap peas, zucchini, and tofu cubes (if using). Stir to coat everything in the curry sauce.
  6. Season the curry: Add the soy sauce and brown sugar, stirring well. Cover the skillet and let simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  7. Finish with fresh herbs: Remove the lid and stir in fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or sugar as desired.
  8. Serve: Spoon the curry over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for squeezing.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting your vegetables before adding them to the curry. This brings out a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy coconut sauce.”

  • Vegetable swaps: Use eggplant, green beans, baby corn, or mushrooms as great alternatives or additions.
  • Protein options: Replace tofu with tempeh, chickpeas, or even plant-based chicken substitutes.
  • Adjust heat: Add fresh sliced chili or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier curry.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your curry paste has no gluten ingredients.
  • Make it nutty: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or top with crushed peanuts for texture.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (serves 4)
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 12 g
Fat 22 g
Carbohydrates 20 g
Fiber 5 g
Sugar 7 g
Sodium 650 mg

Serving Suggestions

This red Thai curry vegetarian is best served piping hot with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or fragrant brown rice to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve with cauliflower rice.

You can also pair it with steamed or stir-fried greens such as bok choy or kale for added nutrition. A crisp cucumber salad or a side of fresh spring rolls can add refreshing contrast to the rich curry flavors.

For a bread option, try warm vegan flour tortillas or naan to scoop up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

This red Thai curry vegetarian recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the bold and exciting flavors of Thailand while keeping things plant-based and nutritious. The creamy coconut milk combined with the spicy red curry paste creates a luxurious sauce that beautifully complements the fresh vegetables and tofu.

It’s a recipe that’s both flexible and forgiving, perfect for adapting to whatever produce you have in your kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or try the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for your next cozy dinner.

For bread lovers, the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is a must-try to accompany your meals.

Enjoy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the wonderful aromas of this comforting red Thai curry vegetarian!

📖 Recipe Card: Red Thai Curry Vegetarian

Description: A flavorful and creamy red Thai curry packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red Thai curry paste
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced
  • 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
  5. Add bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and tofu.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  7. Stir in soy sauce and adjust seasoning.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with rice.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 18 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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