15 Healthy Vegan Curry Recipe Ideas

Vegan Curry Recipe Ideas offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy plant-based meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share, vegan curries provide endless possibilities with their bold flavors and nourishing ingredients.

From creamy coconut-based curries to spice-infused lentil dishes, these recipes are not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Common ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, tofu, and a variety of vegetables bring texture and richness, while aromatic spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander elevate the flavors.

Vegan Curry Recipe Ideas

1. Chickpea and Spinach Curry

Description

This Chickpea and Spinach Curry is a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s rich in fiber and bursting with warm, aromatic spices. The combination of tender chickpeas and fresh spinach in a creamy, tomato-based sauce makes it both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (for added freshness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Iron: 4mg
• Vitamin C: 20mg

2. Lentil Coconut Curry

Description

This Lentil Coconut Curry is a creamy, protein-rich dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Made with red lentils, coconut milk, and warming spices, this curry is packed with fiber and plant-based protein. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy, satisfying meal. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or warm naan for a complete experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 9g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Iron: 5mg
• Vitamin C: 15mg

3. Thai Red Curry with Tofu

Description

This Thai Red Curry with Tofu is a bold and flavorful dish that brings the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness. Made with tofu, coconut milk, and a fragrant red curry paste, this dish is packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats. It pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tsp maple syrup or coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Iron: 4mg
• Vitamin C: 35mg

4. Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Curry

Description

This Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Curry is a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet dish with a hint of spice. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of peanut butter, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, this curry is perfect for a wholesome dinner. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or flatbread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lime (for brightness)
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Iron: 3mg
• Vitamin A: 350% DV

5. Cauliflower and Pea Curry

Description

This Cauliflower and Pea Curry is a light yet satisfying dish packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender cauliflower florets and sweet green peas simmer in a spiced tomato-based sauce, making it a perfect balance of texture and taste. This curry is not only nutrient-dense but also easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal. Serve it with basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 9g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Iron: 4mg
• Vitamin C: 70mg

6. Mushroom and Coconut Curry

Description

This Mushroom and Coconut Curry is a rich, creamy, and aromatic dish that’s bursting with umami flavor. The tender mushrooms absorb the fragrant coconut-based sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. This curry is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Pair it with steamed rice or naan for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lime (for freshness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Iron: 3mg
• Vitamin C: 25mg

7. Jackfruit Masala Curry

Description

This Jackfruit Masala Curry is a delicious and hearty dish that mimics the texture of shredded meat while being 100% plant-based. Young jackfruit absorbs the rich and aromatic masala sauce, making it a perfect option for those looking for a satisfying vegan curry. The blend of spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk creates a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with basmati rice or roti.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) young jackfruit, drained and shredded
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Iron: 3mg
• Vitamin C: 30mg

8. Eggplant and Tomato Curry

Description

This Eggplant and Tomato Curry is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender eggplant simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. The soft texture of the eggplant pairs perfectly with aromatic spices, making this curry a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with basmati rice or warm naan for a delicious plant-based dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, cubed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 ½ cups canned diced tomatoes
• ½ cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Iron: 3mg
• Vitamin C: 25mg

9. Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry

Description

This Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry is a warm, comforting dish perfect for autumn or any time you crave a hearty plant-based meal. The natural sweetness of pumpkin blends beautifully with the nutty chickpeas and fragrant spices, creating a creamy and flavorful curry. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, making it both nutritious and delicious. Serve it with basmati rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Iron: 4mg
• Vitamin A: 150% DV

10. Spinach and Potato Saag Curry

Description

This Spinach and Potato Saag Curry is a nutrient-packed dish inspired by traditional Indian flavors. The tender potatoes absorb the rich, spiced spinach sauce, creating a creamy and satisfying curry. It’s an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and plant-based iron, making it a wholesome and comforting meal. Serve it with basmati rice or whole wheat roti for a well-balanced dish.

Ingredients

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1½ cups frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 small tomato, diced
• ½ cup coconut milk or cashew cream (for creaminess)
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Iron: 5mg
• Vitamin C: 40mg
• Vitamin A: 120% DV

FAQ

1. Can I make these vegan curries without coconut milk?

Yes! You can substitute coconut milk with cashew cream, almond milk, or even vegetable broth for a lighter option. If you want a creamy texture without coconut, blended silken tofu or oat milk also work well.

2. How can I make my curry thicker?

To thicken your curry, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables or lentils, add a spoonful of blended cashews, or let it simmer longer to reduce excess liquid. Another option is stirring in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

3. What are the best protein sources for vegan curries?

Great plant-based protein sources include chickpeas, lentils, tofu, tempeh, jackfruit, and beans. Nuts like cashews and almonds can also add protein while giving the curry a rich texture.

4. How long do vegan curries last in the fridge?

Most vegan curries stay fresh for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.