Description
Peanut Butter Curry
Peanut Butter Curry is a comforting blend of creamy peanut butter and aromatic spices, creating a unique, delicious, and budget-friendly dish. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The delightful combination of flavors pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbread, adding warmth and depth to every bite.
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, minced
2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
2 tbsp curry powder
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth or water
1 tsp chili powder
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Directions:
1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in oil.
2. Add spices, tomatoes, peanut butter, coconut milk, and broth.
3. Simmer for 10-15 mins.
4. Season and serve with rice or naan.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 320/serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to break down.
- Sprinkle in the curry powder and chili powder, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the peanut butter, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Whisk vigorously until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Bring the curry to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile curry pairs beautifully with various sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy basmati or jasmine rice for a classic meal. It’s also excellent with warm naan bread, roti, or quinoa for a protein boost. For a fresh contrast, add a simple side salad of cucumber and red onion with a lime vinaigrette. Toppings like extra chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts add wonderful texture and brightness.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger. Add tomatoes and spices, then toast briefly. Whisk in peanut butter, coconut milk, and broth until smooth. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Season and serve with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, crunchy peanut butter will work and will add a pleasant texture to the curry.
How can I make this curry spicier? Increase the chili powder to your taste, or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper when sautéing the onions.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk? For a lighter version, you can use full-fat Greek yogurt or heavy cream, but add it at the very end over low heat to prevent curdling.
Can I add protein to this curry? Absolutely. Add 1-2 cups of cooked chickpeas, diced tofu, or shredded chicken when you add the coconut milk and let it simmer to heat through.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the Spices: Toast the curry and chili powder for only 30 seconds before adding liquids to prevent a bitter taste.
- Not Whisking Thoroughly: Ensure you whisk the peanut butter vigorously into the warm liquid to avoid clumps in your sauce.
- Over-simmering: Simmer just until thickened. Overcooking can cause the coconut milk to separate and the sauce to become oily.
- Underseasoning: Peanut butter and coconut milk are rich, so don’t forget to season adequately with salt at the end to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter Curry is a testament to how simple, affordable ingredients can create a meal that is deeply flavorful, creamy, and satisfying. Its perfect balance of nutty richness and warm spices makes it a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or when you crave something uniquely comforting. Easy to customize with your favorite proteins and vegetables, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire.