Yellow curry is a vibrant, aromatic dish that instantly brightens up any meal. Perfectly blending the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of coconut milk, yellow curry offers a delightful balance of flavors that vegetarian food lovers will adore.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner experimenting with plant-based dishes, this curry is incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with wholesome vegetables. It’s a comfort food that feels indulgent yet nourishing.
In this post, you’ll discover several delicious vegetarian yellow curry recipes that cater to different tastes and occasions. From a classic Thai-style yellow curry to a hearty vegetable-packed version, these recipes are designed to please your palate while keeping things healthy and meat-free.
Dive in and explore these vibrant dishes that are sure to become staples in your weekly dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Yellow curry is a fantastic choice for vegetarians because it combines bold spices with creamy coconut milk and fresh vegetables, creating a luscious and satisfying meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking.
What makes these recipes stand out is their adaptability. You can swap veggies based on seasonality or preference, add protein like tofu or chickpeas, and adjust the spice level to your liking.
Plus, the vibrant golden color and fragrant spices make it visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- Yellow curry paste – 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
- Coconut milk – 1 can (400 ml)
- Vegetable broth – 1 cup
- Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and diced
- Carrots – 2 medium, sliced
- Bell peppers – 1 large, sliced (any color)
- Green beans – 1 cup, trimmed
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
- Chickpeas – 1 can (optional for protein)
- Oil – 2 tablespoons (vegetable or coconut oil)
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice – to serve
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes, slice the carrots and bell peppers, trim the green beans, and chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.
- Heat the oil. In a large skillet or wok, warm the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the yellow curry paste. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release its flavors. This step is key for a rich curry base.
- Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine with the curry paste. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the potatoes and carrots. These take the longest to cook, so add them first. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the bell peppers, green beans, and chickpeas (if using). Continue simmering for another 8-10 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Season the curry. Taste and adjust salt as needed. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Serve hot. Spoon the curry over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Tips & Variations
For an extra protein boost, try adding cubed tofu or tempeh. You can pan-fry them separately for crispy texture or add soft tofu directly to the curry.
Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or sweet potatoes. Yellow curry is very forgiving and adapts well to seasonal produce.
If you prefer a thicker curry, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 8 g |
Fat | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This yellow curry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant basmati rice. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or with warm, soft naan bread.
Add a simple cucumber salad on the side to balance the warmth of the curry with a refreshing crunch. You can also offer lime wedges for squeezing over the curry to add a zesty brightness.
For more delicious vegetarian meal ideas, check out these recipes:
- Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
- Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious
- Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore
More Yellow Curry Recipes Vegetarian
Classic Thai Yellow Curry with Tofu and Vegetables
This recipe features firm tofu cubes gently simmered in a fragrant yellow curry sauce with bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and baby corn. The tofu soaks up all the delicious flavors, making every bite satisfying.
- Ingredients: yellow curry paste, coconut milk, tofu, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, baby corn, garlic, ginger, vegetable broth, oil, salt.
- Instructions: Sauté garlic and ginger, add curry paste, then coconut milk and broth. Add tofu and vegetables and simmer until tender. Serve with rice.
Yellow Lentil Curry with Spinach
A hearty and nutritious yellow curry made with yellow split lentils and fresh spinach. This dish is protein-packed and comforting, perfect for colder days or when you want a wholesome meal.
- Ingredients: yellow lentils, yellow curry powder, coconut milk, spinach, onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, oil, vegetable broth.
- Instructions: Cook lentils until soft. Sauté aromatics with curry powder, add coconut milk and broth, then combine with lentils and spinach. Simmer and serve.
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Yellow Curry
A sweet and spicy curry featuring tender sweet potatoes and protein-rich chickpeas. The natural sweetness of the potatoes enhances the curry’s flavor, creating a balanced dish.
- Ingredients: sweet potatoes, chickpeas, yellow curry paste, coconut milk, onion, garlic, ginger, vegetable broth, oil.
- Instructions: Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger with curry paste. Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk, and broth. Simmer until sweet potatoes are tender. Serve with rice or flatbread.
Conclusion
Yellow curry is a versatile and flavorful dish that makes vegetarian meals exciting and satisfying. With its creamy coconut base, fragrant spices, and colorful vegetables, it’s a recipe that both beginners and experienced cooks can enjoy.
These recipes not only provide a nourishing meal but also bring warmth and comfort to your dining table.
Whether you prefer a classic curry with tofu or a hearty lentil-based version, yellow curry is a wonderful way to explore vegetarian cooking. Don’t hesitate to customize the vegetables and spice levels to suit your taste and season.
For more plant-based inspiration, be sure to explore other recipes like Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
Happy cooking and enjoy the vibrant flavors of yellow curry!
📖 Recipe Card: Yellow Curry Vegetarian
Description: A creamy and flavorful yellow curry packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add yellow curry paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add potatoes and carrots; cook for 10 minutes.
- Add green beans, bell pepper, and cauliflower; cook 10 more minutes.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 28 g
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