75 Vegetarian Curry Ideas

We all know that curry originated in South Asia, and most of us associated it with Indian cuisine. In reality, various countries around the world have their own take on the traditional curry, and the name itself is said to come from the Tamil language. If you’re in the market for fun facts along with your vegetarian curry ideas today, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

Let’s take a look, shall we?

75 Vegetarian Curry Ideas

Curries have been made with a wide range of ingredients over the years, including both meat and vegetable-only recipes. The protein of the dish may change, but the basic herbs and spices rarely do. They often include things like coconut milk, yoghurt, or tomato puree, as well as ginger, garlic, onion, chili pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and more.

And now it’s time to find out exactly how many different variations of curry you can make with those ingredients.

Potato Vegetarian Curry Ideas

Potato is a versatile ingredient that adds a delightful element to curry dishes. Its mild, creamy flavour and soft, starchy texture make it a perfect complement to the rich and aromatic spices found in curry. Whether cubed or sliced, potatoes absorb the flavours of the curry, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

Spuds provide a satisfying heartiness to vegetarian curries, acting as a substantial base for the dish. They also release their natural starches during cooking, contributing to the thickening of the curry sauce, and their ability to hold their shape while cooking makes them a reliable and comforting addition to any curry creation.

1. Pea and Potato Curry by Tesco Real Food
2. Vegan Saag Aloo (Spinach and Potato Curry) by The Vegan Larder
3. Gujarati Potato Curry by Urvashi Roe / GBC
4. Dum Aloo (Rich Potato Curry) by Delicious Magazine
5. Easy Vegan Potato Curry by Oh My Veggies

Sweet Potato Vegetarian Curry Recipes

Sweet potatoes offer a plethora of health benefits for vegetarians. Packed with essential nutrients, they’re a great source of dietary fibre, help to promote digestive health, and can aid in weight management.

Their high vitamin A content supports eye health and boosts the immune system. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamin C, which aids in collagen production and enhances skin health. They provide a steady release of energy due to their low glycaemic index, making them a suitable choice for sustained energy levels. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Their natural sweetness adds a delightful flavor to vegetarian dishes while providing numerous nutritional advantages.

1. Satay Sweet Potato and Kale Curry by Gousto
2. Cauliflower Rice and Jerk Sweet Potato Curry by Tin and Thyme
3. Leek, Pea, and Sweet Potato Curry with Dumplings by Tesco Real Food
4. Spiced Sweet Potato, Tomato, and Coconut Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine
5. Sweet Potato and Peanut Curry by BBC Good Food

Vegetarian Curry Recipes with Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a star ingredient in curry dishes, especially for vegetarians. These protein-packed legumes bring a satisfying texture and nutty flavour to curries. Rich in fibre, they promote a healthy digestive system and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Chickpeas are also a great source of plant-based iron, essential for energy production and preventing anaemia.

With their impressive folate content, they support cell growth and development. Furthermore, chickpeas offer a substantial dose of manganese, which aids in bone health and enzyme function. Whether whole or mashed, chickpeas add a hearty element to curries, making them a nutritious and filling choice for vegetarian meals.

1. 15-Minute Creamy Chickpea Curry by Easy Cheesy Vegetarian
2. Leek, Carrot, and Chickpea Curry by Asda Good Living
3. Baked Baby Aubergine with Spicy Lentil and Chickpea Curry by Vegetarian Society
4. Tofu and Chickpea Curry with Spring Greens by Jamie Oliver
5. Courgette Curry with Chickpeas by The Vegan Larder
6. Chickpea, Tomato, and Spinach Curry by Joe Wicks / ITV
7. Roasted Squash and Chickpea Korma by Waitrose
8. Spinach Chickpea Curry with Coconut (Not Tomatoes) by Tin and Thyme
9. Beetroot and Chickpea Curry by Vegetarian Society
10. Thai Chickpea and Aubergine Curry by Tesco Real Food

Curry with Cauliflower Ideas for Vegetarians

Cauliflower is a good source of antioxidants, including glucosinolates, which have been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Additionally, its mild flavour and unique texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used as a substitute for grains or in a variety of dishes, such as cauliflower rice or cauliflower pizza crust.

Low in both calories and carbohydrates, cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, providing immune support and promoting healthy blood clotting. It also contains fibre, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

1. Cauliflower Korma by The Vegan Chef School
2. Gnarly Cauliflower Curry by Jamie Oliver
3. Cauliflower Katsu Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine
4. Chickpea, Coconut, and Cauliflower Curry by Nuush
5. Cauliflower, Potato and Spinach Curry by Vegetarian Society

Vegetarian Curry Ideas with Coconut

The use of coconut in curry dishes can be traced back to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly countries like India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. Coconuts have been a staple ingredient in these cuisines for centuries. The coconut palm, native to this region, provides a multitude of culinary uses. In curries, coconut is commonly used in various forms such as coconut milk, grated coconut, or coconut cream.

The creamy and rich texture enhances the flavours of the spices and creates a smooth and luscious curry sauce. It adds a hint of sweetness and balances out the heat of the spices, resulting in a well-rounded and delightful culinary experience. Coconut’s natural abundance in these regions has made it an integral part of their traditional curry recipes.

1. Slow Cooker Coconut Chickpea Curry by Easy Cheesy Vegetarian
2. Vegan Korma with Coconut Yoghurt Sauce by The Veg Space
3. Coconut, Aubergine, and Lentil curry by Asda Good Living
4. Spiced Green Pea and Coconut Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine
5. Cauliflower, Chickpea, and Coconut Milk Curry by Vegetarian Society
6. Coconut and Squash Dhansak by BBC Good Food
7. Beans Poriyal (French Beans, Coconut, and Tempering Spices) by Sandhya’s Kitchen
8. Spicy Coconut Curry by Crop Drop
9. Masala Corn on the Cob in Peanut and Coconut Gravy by Simply Sensational Food
10. Spiced Aubergine and Coconut Curry by Jamie Oliver

Vegetable Curry Ideas for Vegetarians

The origins of curry can be traced back to the Indian subcontinent, specifically to the ancient civilizations of India. The word “curry” itself is derived from the Tamil word ‘kari,’ which means a sauce or a relish for rice. Curry has a rich and diverse history, evolving over centuries with influences from various cultures and regions.

Indian cuisine, with its extensive use of aromatic spices and herbs, forms the foundation of curry. As Indian traders and merchants travelled and settled in different parts of the world, curry spread to other regions, including Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Africa, and Europe. Today, curry has become a globally recognized culinary delight, with countless variations and adaptations, each with its unique blend of spices and flavours.

1. Butternut Squash Balti by Sainsbury’s Magazine
2. Black-Eyed Peas Curry by Flavours Treat
3. Aubergine and Halloumi Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine
4. Cabbage and Lentil Curry by Asda Good Living
5. Baby Corn Masala by Flavours Treat
6. Caribbean Vegetable Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine
7. Creamy Parsnip Curry with Lentils by The Veg Space
8. Cauliflower and Potato Curry by Tesco Real Food
9. Tomato Curry with Coconut Rice by Nigella Lawson
10. Halloumi and Spinach Curry by Sainsbury’s Magazine

Curry Ideas for Vegetarians with Nuts

Nuts, when included in curry dishes, offer several benefits that contribute to both taste and nutrition. They are packed with essential nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Nuts are also a great source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

When choosing nuts for curry, consider options like almonds, cashews, peanuts, or pistachios. Experimenting with different nut varieties can add depth and nutritional value to your curry creations.

1. Aubergine Peanut Butter Curry by Vegetarian Society
2. Courgette, Coconut, and Almond Curry by Nuush
3. Cauliflower and Cashew Nut Curry by Nigella Lawson
4. Apricot, Butternut squash, and Cashew Curry by Healthy Living James
5. Curry with Apples, Kale, Chickpeas, and Cashews by Oh My Veggies

Paneer Curry Recipes for Vegetarians

Paneer is a type of Indian cheese, made by first curdling milk using either vinegar or lemon juice. This process helps to separate the cheese into two parts: curds, and whey. The curds are then pressed to remove excess moisture, resulting in a firm and crumbly cheese.

Paneer has a mild, slightly tangy flavour and a dense, creamy texture. It does not melt when heated, making it an ideal ingredient for dishes like curries, kebabs, and desserts. A popular choice for vegetarians due to its high protein content and versatility in various recipes, it is often used as a protein source in Indian vegetarian dishes, providing a creamy and satisfying element to the cuisine.

1. 20-Minute Paneer and Cabbage Curry with Coriander Naan by Gousto
2. Creamy Pea and Paneer Curry by Waitrose
3. Paneer Jalfrezi by Flavours Treats
4. Curried Paneer and Pineapple Noodles by Gousto
5. Swahili Paneer Curry by James Martin

Curry with Lentil Ideas for Vegetarians

Lentils have a mild, earthy flavour with a hint of nuttiness, and have a satisfying and slightly grainy texture when cooked, similar to beans or legumes. The taste can vary slightly depending on the variety, with some types being slightly sweeter or more peppery than others.

Red lentils tend to have a milder flavour compared to green or brown lentils. Lentils also have the ability to absorb the flavours of the ingredients and seasonings they are cooked with, making them a versatile ingredient in various cuisines. They are commonly used in soups, stews, salads, and curries, adding a hearty and nutritious element to dishes,

1. 15-Minute Dhal (Lentil) Curry by Delia Smith
2. Carrot and Lentil Curry by Cuisinicity / Yummly
3. Egg and Lentil Curry by Delia Smith
4. Lentil and Vegetable Curry by Delia Smith
5. Swiss Chard Curry with Potato and Lentils by The Veg Space

Curry with Tofu Recipes for Vegetarians UK

Tofu is a food product made from soybeans, created by curdling soy milk, and then pressing the resulting curds into solid blocks. The ingredient is a staple in many Asian cuisines and is known for its versatility as a meat substitute.

The taste and texture of tofu can vary depending on the type and preparation. Generally, tofu has a mild, subtle flavour that allows it to easily absorb the flavours of other ingredients and seasonings in a dish. Its texture can range from soft and silken to firm and chewy, depending on the variety and how it is cooked or processed.

1. Mango Curry Tofu by Oh My Veggies
2. Tofu Curry with Mushrooms by Tesco Real Food
3. Thai Tofu Curry Bowl by Nuush
4. Vegan Katsu Tofu Curry by Oh My Veggies
5. Tofu Rogan Josh with Chilli Rice by Vegetarian Society

Other Vegetarian Curry Ideas UK

Curry is not a single spice, but rather a blend of various spices and herbs that can vary depending on the region and recipe. Common spices found in curry blends include turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and chili peppers.

Curry is widely associated with Indian cuisine, but it is also popular in many other countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Caribbean, where local variations of curry have developed.

1. South Indian Egg Curry by Sandhya’s Kitchen
2. Quorn Rendang Curry by Deena Kakaya / GBC
3. Pumpkin and Quinoa Curry by Healthy Living James
4. Vegan Massaman Curry by David and Charlotte Bailey / GBC
5. Madras Egg Curry by Asda Good Living
6. Vegan Thai Green Curry by Tesco Real Food
7. Quorn Pieces Thai Green Curry by The Veg Space
8. Golden Egg Curry by Nigella Lawson
9. 15-Minute Vegetable Curry by Healthy Living James
10. Tomato, Spinach, and Coconut Curry by Nuush

In conclusion, vegetarian curry is a culinary masterpiece that delights the taste buds while offering numerous health benefits. Its vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and diverse array of vegetables, legumes, and plant-based proteins create a satisfying and nourishing meal. Whether you opt for a creamy coconut-based curry or a spicy and tangy rendition, vegetarian curry showcases the incredible versatility of plant-based ingredients.

So next time you’re in the mood for a flavourful and wholesome dish, dive into the world of vegetarian curry and savour its delightful and nutritious offerings.

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