Curry lovers, rejoice! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the world of Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, there’s no denying the magic that happens when you combine aromatic spices with tender meat or vegetables. In this article, we’ll be diving into 17 mouth-watering curry recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic chicken tikka masala to vibrant vegetable curries and protein-packed lentil dishes, these easy-to-make recipes will satisfy your cravings without breaking a sweat.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish to impress your friends and family, our collection of curry recipes has got you covered. So, grab your apron, heat up those spices, and get ready to dive into the flavorful world of curries!
Easy Chicken Tikka Masala
This creamy, aromatic Indian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the baked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Vegetable Curry with Coconut Milk
This creamy and flavorful curry is a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a comforting dish. With the richness of coconut milk, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add bell pepper and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, then add diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Lentil Curry in 30 Minutes
Ready a flavorful and nutritious meal in no time with this simple recipe. This Quick Lentil Curry is perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, and a splash of water (if needed). Simmer for 5 minutes or until the flavors are combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
One-Pot Thai Red Curry with Shrimp
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the convenience of a one-pot meal, featuring succulent shrimp and creamy red curry sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add coconut milk, broth, fish sauce, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add shrimp; cook for 5-7 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Effortless Butter Chicken
This recipe is a twist on the classic Indian dish, simplifying the cooking process without compromising on flavor. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, then add remaining 1 tablespoon butter, onion, garlic, garam masala, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes to skillet and stir to combine. Return chicken to skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Speedy Chickpea and Spinach Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, and water or broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; add spinach and stir until wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Japanese Curry with Beef
Easy Japanese Curry with Beef
This recipe makes a delicious and comforting curry dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux (available at Asian grocery stores)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Japanese curry roux to the pan and stir well. Gradually add the water, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and season with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
30-Minute Coconut Fish Curry
This 30-minute coconut fish curry recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tender flaky fish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this curry is sure to please!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, water, and fish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
No-Fuss Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all in a deliciously spiced tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with a pinch of salt and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk, vegetable broth, and roasted sweet potatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and add chickpeas. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mild Yellow Curry with Tofu
This creamy and aromatic curry is a popular Thai dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the addition of firm tofu, it becomes a satisfying and protein-rich meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in curry paste, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and water/broth mixture; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add tofu cubes; stir gently to combine.
7. Serve over rice, noodles, or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fast and Flavorful Panang Curry
Panang curry, a popular Thai dish, gets a speedy twist with this recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This rich and creamy curry is packed with flavor from the combination of coconut milk, peanuts, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons Panang curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste, peanut butter, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Ground Beef Keema Curry
Savor a flavorful and comforting Indian-inspired dish with this simple ground beef curry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep, it’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Egg Curry with Tomatoes
This classic Indian-inspired curry recipe is a staple for any meal. Boil eggs and blend them into the flavorful tomato-based sauce, served over rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Boil eggs until cooked through, then peel and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Blend cooked eggs into the tomato mixture until well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Mushroom and Pea Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect weeknight dinner solution, packed with tender mushrooms, sweet peas, and aromatic spices. With just one pan to clean, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in peas, diced tomatoes, curry powder, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Quick Thai Green Curry with Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this rapid-fire recipe for a delicious and creamy green curry with chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Vegan Pumpkin Curry
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful vegan pumpkin curry recipe! Perfect for a cozy night in or as a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– 1 can of coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the diced pumpkin and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro (if desired) and serve over rice, naan, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
5-Ingredient Coconut Lentil Curry
This quick and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and creamy coconut milk, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. With just 5 ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils, onion, and curry powder.
2. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot over rice, naan, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover 17 mouthwatering curry recipes perfect for beginners! From classic chicken tikka masala to flavorful Thai red curry, and from comforting lentil curry to spicy Panang curry, this collection has something for everyone. Each recipe is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating delicious and authentic curries. Get ready to spice up your meals with these 17 scrumptious curry recipes!