Vegan Thai Green Curry

This Vegan Thai Green Curry is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe combines aromatic herbs and creamy coconut milk with vibrant vegetables. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a versatile choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to special gatherings. Enjoy the health benefits of fresh ingredients while indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a rich, layered flavor profile that will excite your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this dish can be ready in under an hour.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the vegetables or protein (like tofu or chicken) based on what you have on hand.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients, this curry is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture from coconut milk makes it the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Vegan Thai Green Curry, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• High-speed blender
• Large deep skillet
• Oven
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• High-speed blender: This tool is crucial for creating a smooth curry paste that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Large deep skillet: A deep skillet allows for even cooking and ample space to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
• Oven: Roasting the tofu and broccoli adds depth to their flavors, making them crispy and delicious.
• Baking sheets: These are essential for evenly distributing the tofu and broccoli while they roast in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Tofu and Broccoli

• 1 block (16 oz) extra firm tofu
• 1 large head young broccoli, cut into florets
• Avocado oil
• Kosher salt and white pepper, to taste

For the Curry Paste

• 2 tbsp (18 g) avocado oil
• 1/4 cup (70 g) Thai green curry paste
• 2 (50 g) shallots, roughly chopped
• 5 garlic cloves (21 g)
• 2” piece (18 g) ginger, finely minced
• 3 fresh lemongrass stalks, finely minced (use the soft inner part) (18 g)

For the Coconut Sauce

• 1/2 cup (10 g) fresh thai basil
• 1 bunch cilantro (45 g), stems only, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup (20 g) cilantro leaves, packed
• 2 (14 oz) cans full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup water (add little by little)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar
• 6 lime leaves, torn

For Serving

• 1/2 cup thai basil leaves
• 1 lime, both zest and juice
• Kosher salt to taste
• Jasmine white rice

How to Make Vegan Thai Green Curry

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. Tear the tofu into small bite-size chunks and chop the broccoli into small florets.

Step 2: Roast Tofu and Broccoli

• Add tofu to one pan and broccoli to another.
• Toss the tofu with white pepper and salt; drizzle avocado oil over it.
• Toss broccoli in salt and avocado oil as well.
• Bake tofu for 22 minutes until crisp; bake broccoli for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Curry Paste

In a high-speed blender:
– Add all curry paste ingredients.
– Blend on low speed until they form a paste. Increase speed gradually until smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Curry Base

Heat a large deep skillet on medium-high heat:
– Pour in 3-4 tablespoons of canned coconut milk.
– Heat until bubbling; add curry paste.
– Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. If sticking occurs, deglaze with coconut milk.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add:
– Remaining coconut milk,
– Soy sauce,
– Coconut sugar,
– Lime leaves.

Mix well until you have a silky mixture. Simmer on medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in:
– Roasted tofu,
– Broccoli,
Reducing heat to low. Cook partially covered for another 5 minutes. Adjust salt as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Remove lime leaves. Stir in:
– Thai basil,
– Lime zest,
– Lime juice.

Serve over jasmine white rice or basmati rice for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Vegan Thai Green Curry

Vegan Thai green curry is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, enhancing its flavors and textures. Here are some great serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful curry.

Over Rice

• Jasmine Rice: The fragrant jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut flavor of the curry.
• Basmati Rice: For a nutty taste, basmati rice is an excellent option that complements the dish well.

With Fresh Herbs

• Thai Basil: Garnish your curry with fresh Thai basil for added aroma and flavor.
• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a refreshing kick.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Greens: Serve alongside steamed bok choy or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini or bell peppers add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the curry.

As a Soup

• Curry Soup: Thin out the curry with additional broth or coconut milk for a comforting soup version.

How to Perfect Vegan Thai Green Curry

Creating the perfect vegan Thai green curry involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve an exceptional dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavors significantly, making your curry more aromatic and delicious.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust salt, sweetness, and acidity to find the right balance. A splash of lime juice can brighten up the dish!
• Blend Smoothly: Ensure your curry paste is smooth to ensure even flavor distribution throughout the curry.
• Cook Slowly: Allowing the curry to simmer helps develop deeper flavors, so don’t rush this step!
• Add Texture: Incorporate different vegetables for varying textures, such as snap peas or carrots for crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Thai Green Curry

To make your meal even more satisfying, consider pairing vegan Thai green curry with these delicious side dishes.

1. Coconut Rice: This sweet and creamy rice complements the savory notes of the curry beautifully.
2. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad adds sweetness and acidity that balances out the rich flavors of the curry.
3. Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls provide a light and crunchy contrast to the creamy dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables offers protein and fiber while keeping things healthy.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with spicy curries.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables can cut through richness and add brightness to your plate.
7. Naan or Flatbread: Soft naan or flatbreads serve as perfect vessels for scooping up delicious curry.
8. Cucumber Relish: A cool cucumber relish provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of spicy curry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Thai Green Curry, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Using the wrong type of tofu: Not all tofu is created equal. Make sure to use extra firm tofu for the best texture in your curry.
• Overcooking the vegetables: To maintain their vibrant color and crunch, avoid overcooking broccoli. Add it towards the end of cooking time.
• Skipping the simmering step: This crucial step enhances flavors. Make sure to let your curry simmer for at least 5 minutes for a rich taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste your curry before serving. Adjust salt and other seasonings as needed to achieve perfect balance.
• Neglecting freshness of herbs: Fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro elevate the dish. Use them just before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vegan Thai Green Curry in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Vegan Thai Green Curry

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vegan Thai Green Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place curry in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Vegan Thai Green Curry, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is Vegan Thai Green Curry?

Vegan Thai Green Curry is a flavorful dish made with fresh vegetables, coconut milk, and aromatic herbs without any animal products.

Can I customize my Vegan Thai Green Curry?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas or adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green curry paste used.

How do I make my Vegan Thai Green Curry spicier?

To increase heat, add more green curry paste or include fresh chili peppers while cooking. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!

Can I use different proteins in this Vegan Thai Green Curry?

You can substitute tofu with chickpeas or tempeh for a different protein option while keeping it vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thai Green Curry is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your taste. Whether you prefer extra veggies or a different protein source, this recipe leaves room for creativity. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!