Vegetable curry

Vegetable curry is a flavorful and comforting dish that's easy to make and highly customizable. Here’s a basic recipe for a classic vegetable curry that you can adjust to your taste:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk (or any other milk of choice)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, peas, green beans, or cauliflower), chopped
• 1 cup chickpeas (canned or cooked)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for added umami)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1 minute.

2. Add Spices: Add the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the onions with the spices and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk: Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables and chickpeas to the pot. Stir to combine and make sure the vegetables are submerged in the liquid.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally.

6. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and soy sauce or tamari if desired. Stir in the lemon juice if using.

7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve the curry over rice, with naan bread, or with a side of yogurt.

Tips:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash work well, as do leafy greens like spinach or kale.
• Add Protein: You can also add tofu or tempeh for additional protein.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper or by adding a chopped chili pepper.

Enjoy your vegetable curry—it’s a versatile dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!