Easy Coconut Curry Recipe

Master this homemade easy coconut curry recipe in just 30 minutes! The perfect balance of fragrant spices and creamy coconut milk creates the best weeknight comfort food. Learn how to make this foolproof curry that's both beginner-friendly and incredibly flavorful.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp vegetable oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large onion, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 garlic cloves, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp curry powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp ground cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp ground coriander</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp turmeric</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400ml coconut milk (full-fat)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200ml vegetable stock</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp tomato paste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, sliced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 green bell pepper, sliced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g cauliflower florets</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g sweet potato, diced into 2cm cubes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g frozen peas</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp brown sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 lime, juiced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish (optional)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 385 calories

🥑 Fat: 28 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 18 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 24 g

🍭 Sugar: 8 g

🍗 Protein: 12 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 650 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Wooden spoon</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Heat the vegetable oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and starting to soften. This slow cooking of onions builds a foundational flavor layer for your curry.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them as this will create bitterness in your curry.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Sprinkle in all the dry spices (curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne) and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until they become aromatic. This "blooming" of spices in oil is crucial for releasing their full flavor potential and creating an authentic curry taste.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning. The tomato paste will caramelize slightly, adding depth to your curry.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable stock, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, being careful not to boil rapidly as this can cause the coconut milk to separate.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Add the diced sweet potato first, as it takes longest to cook. Cover and simmer for about 7 minutes until partially softened. The starch from the sweet potato will also help thicken your curry naturally.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Add the cauliflower florets and bell peppers to the pot. Stir gently to coat with the sauce, then cover and simmer for another 8-10 minutes until all vegetables are tender but still hold their shape. A good curry maintains vegetable integrity rather than becoming mushy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Stir in the frozen peas and brown sugar. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through. The sugar balances the acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the coconut milk.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. This final acid addition brightens all the flavors and balances the richness of the coconut milk. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving - this allows the flavors to meld together and develop more complexity. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and toasted coconut flakes if using. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your preferred accompaniment.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Easy Coconut Curry Recipe?

This coconut curry features vegetable oil, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, coconut milk, vegetable stock, tomato paste, bell peppers, cauliflower, sweet potato, peas, brown sugar, lime juice, and fresh coriander for garnish.

How to cook Easy Coconut Curry Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Easy Coconut Curry Recipe by sautéing aromatics, blooming spices, adding coconut milk and stock, then simmering vegetables in stages. First cook sweet potatoes, then add cauliflower and peppers, and finally peas. Finish with lime juice and garnishes for a restaurant-quality curry ready in just 30 minutes with minimal equipment.

Can I make this curry recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This curry actually improves in flavour when made a day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. The spices will continue to develop, creating an even more complex and delicious flavour profile.

What protein options work best with coconut curry?

This versatile curry welcomes many proteins: add firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, chicken breast or thigh for a classic variation, prawns for seafood lovers, or even tender lamb chunks. Add proteins at appropriate cooking stages to ensure proper cooking without overdoing it.

How can I adjust the spice level of homemade curry?

Control the heat by adjusting the cayenne pepper—omit it completely for a mild curry or double it for extra kick. Adding a sliced fresh chilli during cooking increases heat, while stirring in coconut cream or yoghurt at the end tempers spiciness. Remember, you can always add spice but can't remove it!

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