Quick Vegetarian Curry
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Quick Vegetarian Curry
This tofu broccoli curry is the ultimate vegetarian weeknight dinner, made from scratch with creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick, healthy meal that feels gourmet. You’ll love how the tender broccoli and golden tofu soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
I discovered my love for this dish during a trip to a small market in Bangkok, where the fragrant simmer of curry paste and coconut milk filled the air. It reminded me that the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable meals. Now, I make this curry whenever I need a comforting yet vibrant dinner, often pairing it with my spaghetti squash pad thai for a complete feast, or serving it alongside a cozy bowl of chicken stew for a varied meal.
What Makes This Tofu Broccoli Curry Irresistible
- Quick & Easy: From pan to table in under 30 minutes for a stress-free dinner.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli and protein-rich tofu for a nutritious meal.
- Make-Ahead Ease: The flavors deepen when made ahead, perfect for meal prep.
- Family Favorite: Its mild, creamy sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Tofu Broccoli Curry
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
- All-purpose flour: Helps create a light coating on the tofu for better browning.
- Baking soda: A small amount can help tenderize the tofu slightly.
- Kosher salt: Use this for more controlled seasoning throughout the dish.
- Unsalted butter, softened: For cooking the curry base and adding richness.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance the spices in the curry.
- Packed light brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses note to the sauce.
- Large eggs, at room temperature: Used for a binding agent if making curry fritters.
- Pure vanilla extract: A secret ingredient that enhances the overall aroma.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For an unexpected sweet twist in a savory curry (optional).
Tofu Broccoli Curry
Easy tofu broccoli curry recipe ready in 25 minutes. Perfect vegetarian dinner with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions for delicious results.
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- medium bowl
- whisk
- large mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- rubber spatula
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers still look slightly soft.
Ways to Customize Your Curry
- Add More Protein: Stir in chickpeas or red lentils for extra heartiness.
- Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili.
- Creamier Texture: Swirl in a tablespoon of coconut cream at the end.
My Favorite Tips for Curry Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and firm tofu will give you the best texture and flavor in this vegetarian curry recipe.
- Get the Right Texture: Press your tofu well to remove excess water, ensuring it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Prevent Overcooking: Add the broccoli florets towards the end to keep them vibrant and crisp-tender.
- Season Properly: Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end, as flavors change while simmering. For more inspiration on building flavors, see my vegetable grain bowl guide.
How to Keep Your Curry Fresh
- Store: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, though broccoli may soften slightly upon thawing.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The curry sauce can be made 2 days ahead and combined with fresh tofu and broccoli when ready to serve. This easy method is similar to preparing a creamy vegetable casserole in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you press tofu for curry?
I wrap the tofu block in paper towels, place it on a plate, and set a heavy pan on top for 15-20 minutes. This removes excess water, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor and achieve a better texture when cooked in your healthy curry dish.
Can I use frozen broccoli in curry?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but I recommend thawing and patting it dry first to avoid watering down the sauce. Fresh broccoli will give you a crisper result, essential for a perfect broccoli tofu stir-fry.
What can I substitute for coconut milk?
For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk or even a creamy nut milk like cashew milk. The sauce will be less rich, but it will still make a delicious quick tofu dinner. For a different creamy dish, try my creamy pasta.
Is tofu broccoli curry spicy?
This recipe is mildly spiced, making it family-friendly. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more curry paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the sauce base.
Other Favorite Vegetarian Dinners
Why This Tofu Broccoli Curry Is A Weeknight Champion
With its creamy coconut sauce and perfectly cooked vegetables, this curry is a reliable go-to for busy evenings. It’s easy to make from scratch and always satisfies with its comforting, wholesome flavors. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
