Veggie Coconut Curry

Featured in: Main Dishes

This veggie coconut curry features a medley of frozen mixed vegetables gently simmered in creamy coconut milk, enriched with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The onion, garlic, and ginger base creates a fragrant foundation, while lime juice and fresh cilantro add brightness. Ready in 35 minutes, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a wholesome, comforting mains course, served alongside rice or naan for a satisfying experience.

Optional protein additions include chickpeas or tofu, with chili flakes for extra heat and a touch of coconut sugar for subtle sweetness. This naturally gluten-free, vegan option embraces vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients for an inviting meal.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:14:00 GMT
Steaming Veggie Coconut Curry, a warm, fragrant dish with tender vegetables and creamy sauce. Save
Steaming Veggie Coconut Curry, a warm, fragrant dish with tender vegetables and creamy sauce. | cheerfulchefs.com

A vibrant budget-friendly plant-based curry featuring colorful frozen vegetables simmered in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices.

I first prepared this curry on a weeknight when I needed a quick meal. The wonderful aroma from the coconut milk and spices instantly made the kitchen feel warm and inviting.

Ingredients

  • Mixed frozen vegetables: 500 g (about 4 cups) (e.g. carrots peas green beans corn cauliflower broccoli)
  • Onion: 1 medium diced
  • Garlic: 2 cloves minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon grated
  • Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Coconut milk: 400 ml (1 can) full-fat preferred
  • Canned diced tomatoes: 200 g (about 1 cup)
  • Water: 120 ml (½ cup)
  • Curry powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
  • Turmeric: ½ teaspoon
  • Chili flakes: ½ teaspoon optional for heat
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons chopped
  • Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Cooked rice or naan: for serving optional

Instructions

Cook aromatics:
Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add garlic and ginger:
Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Toast spices:
Stir in curry powder cumin coriander turmeric and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Add vegetables and tomatoes:
Add frozen vegetables and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
Add liquids and season:
Pour in coconut milk and water. Season with salt and black pepper.
Simmer:
Bring to a simmer cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and curry has thickened.
Finish:
Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro alongside rice or naan if desired.
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This recipe quickly became a family favorite for busy nights when everyone wants something tasty and nourishing in less than 40 minutes.

Required Tools

Large saucepan or deep skillet, chefs knife and cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.

Allergen Information

Contains coconut. Gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 295, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g per serving.

Bright and colorful Veggie Coconut Curry, garnished with cilantro, ready to be enjoyed with rice. Save
Bright and colorful Veggie Coconut Curry, garnished with cilantro, ready to be enjoyed with rice. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy this rich colorful curry as a cozy and satisfying meal. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or warm naan.

Recipe FAQs

What vegetables work best in this curry?

Mixed frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, green beans, corn, cauliflower, and broccoli create a hearty and colorful blend that holds up well in the curry sauce.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, adding drained chickpeas or firm tofu cubes during cooking boosts protein content and complements the flavors beautifully.

How spicy is this curry, and can the heat be adjusted?

The dish includes optional chili flakes that can be increased or omitted to suit your preferred spice level, making it customizable for all tastes.

What is the best way to serve this curry?

This curry is delicious served hot with steamed rice or warm naan bread, which soak up the creamy, flavorful sauce perfectly.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Ensure spice blends like curry powder are certified gluten-free for safety.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

The flavors deepen when allowed to rest, so it can be prepared in advance and gently reheated before serving without losing quality.

Veggie Coconut Curry

A vibrant coconut curry with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices for a cozy plant-based meal.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background Indian-Inspired

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Dairy-Free Option, Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Vegetables

01 4 cups mixed frozen vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, corn, cauliflower, broccoli)
02 1 medium onion, diced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Curry Base

01 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
02 1 can (13.5 fl oz) full-fat coconut milk
03 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
04 ½ cup water

Spices

01 1 tablespoon curry powder
02 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 1 teaspoon ground coriander
04 ½ teaspoon turmeric
05 ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
06 Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finish & Garnish

01 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
02 1 tablespoon lime juice

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Sauté Onions: Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 02

Add Aromatics: Incorporate minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Toast Spices: Stir in curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.

Step 04

Combine Vegetables and Tomatoes: Add frozen mixed vegetables and diced tomatoes to the saucepan and stir until evenly mixed.

Step 05

Add Liquids and Season: Pour in coconut milk and water. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 06

Simmer Curry: Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the curry is thickened.

Step 07

Finish and Adjust: Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 08

Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, alongside rice or naan if desired.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large saucepan or deep skillet
  • Chef's knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains coconut
  • Gluten-free; verify spice blends for gluten content

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 295
  • Fats: 16 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 32 grams
  • Proteins: 6 grams