| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 370 | 16g | 10g | 48g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 13g | 15g | 0.7g |
Why I Love Thai Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas
Tempting, spicy, and brimming with the richness of flavors – that is how I would describe this incredibly fulfilling Thai masterpiece, the Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas. Despite being far from the hustle and bustle of the NYC food scene that I grew up with, the dish is just as diverse and full of depth in its flavor profile. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate dishes that not only satisfy my palate but also my pursuit of healthier choices.
Unpacking the Flavor
Fairest among thousands, and altogether lovely, this dish conjures up the exotic Thai beaches, bustling street markets, and the real Thai kitchen experience. The signature red curry fanfare, enlivened by the hearty chickpeas and mellowed with the coconut milk, plays out an exotic symphony of flavors quiet admirably. This creamy concoction, further adorned with zucchini, peas, and a burst of fresh basil, is a pure ode to the even-handedness with which Thai cuisine balances hot, sour, sweet, and savory in a single bowl.
The symphony of ginger, garlic, and onions, cooked till the point where they melt in your mouth, plays out a familiar tune, one that might take you back to the bubbling curry-pot, a classic of most Asian cuisines.
From Imagination to Kitchen
Inspired by the likes of chefs like Nigel Slater, known for his simple, straightforward, and home-style cooking, this Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas is comfort food at its finest. However, it isn’t just its delicious taste that won my heart – it’s also the fusion of simplicity and versatility.
Paired with Jasmine rice, a staple food in Thailand, this Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas is a feast in itself. I can also easily see this working well with Basmati rice, roti, or Naan. Even if you’re not strictly vegan, a touch of grilled chicken or prawns would make the dish an absolute show-stealer!
So there you have it! A recipe that stands tall and proud on its strong flavors, is healthful and inclusive, and one that doesn’t require spending hours in the kitchen. A dish that transcends borders and blends cultures. I hope you’ll enjoy the Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas as much as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
Method
Step One
Heat the 3 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil has heated, add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
Step Two
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot with the sauted onions, and sauté for another couple of minutes until they become fragrant.
Step Three
Add in the red curry paste, curry powder, and turmeric into the pot. Stir everything together so the onions, garlic, and ginger are evenly coated in the spices.
Step Four
Add the drained chickpeas to the pot and stir them so they’re coated in the spice mixture. Let this cook for a few minutes so the chickpeas can absorb some of the flavors.
Step Five
Pour the vegetable broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, and maple syrup into the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step Six
Add the diced carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and peas to the simmering pot. Let this cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
Step Seven
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and salt, to bring all the flavors together.
Step Eight
Serve the curry over cooked jasmine rice. You can garnish with additional fresh basil or drizzle of coconut milk if desired. Your Vegan Red Curry with Chickpeas is ready to be enjoyed!
