This vegan butter bean curry is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. It combines the richness of coconut milk with spices and vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Below is a step-by-step recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (14 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil (or olive oil)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, grated or minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup frozen spinach (or fresh if available)
• Chili powder to taste (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional for Serving

• Basmati rice
• Fresh coriander, chopped
• Homemade naan bread
• Coconut yogurt

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Drain the butter beans, dice the onion, and grate the garlic and ginger.

Cook Aromatics:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add the rapeseed oil.
• Sauté the diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the grated garlic and sprinkle with salt, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices:

• Add the grated ginger along with ground coriander, cumin, garam masala, and curry powder.
• Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Adjust heat with chili powder if desired.

Simmer:

• Pour in the chopped tomatoes and frozen spinach, stirring to combine.
• Add the drained butter beans and coconut milk.
• Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. If too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

Season and Serve:

• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot alongside basmati rice or naan bread, topped with fresh coriander and a dollop of coconut yogurt.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave.

This recipe is not only quick but also adaptable; you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots based on your preference. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion!

Enhancing Your Butter Bean Curry: Tips and Variations

Butter bean curry is a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here’s a breakdown of how to enhance your curry with additional vegetables, alternative milks, ways to increase spiciness, suitable side dishes, and storage tips.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add to the Butter Bean Curry?

You can easily incorporate a variety of vegetables into your butter bean curry to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. Here are some excellent options:

• Bell Peppers: Add diced red, green, or yellow bell peppers for sweetness and color.
• Carrots: Sliced or diced carrots provide a nice crunch and sweetness.
• Zucchini: Diced zucchini cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Cauliflower: Florets of cauliflower add texture and soak up the curry sauce.
• Sweet Potatoes: Cubed sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast to the spices.
• Green Beans: Chopped green beans add a fresh crunch.
• Peas: Frozen peas can be added towards the end of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness.

Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

Can I Use a Different Type of Milk Instead of Coconut Milk?

Yes, if you prefer not to use coconut milk, there are several alternatives you can try:

• Soy Milk or Almond Milk: Both can work as substitutes, but they are thinner than coconut milk. Use unsweetened versions for the best flavor.
• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water to create a rich, creamy texture that mimics coconut milk.
• Oat Milk: This has a mild flavor and can add creaminess when used in curries.
• Plant-Based Milk with Coconut Oil: Mixing any plant-based milk with a bit of coconut oil can help achieve a creamier texture reminiscent of coconut milk.

Keep in mind that while these alternatives will change the flavor profile slightly, they can still create a delicious curry.

How Can I Make the Curry Spicier?

To increase the heat in your butter bean curry, consider these options:

• Add Fresh Chilies: Sliced jalapeños or serranos can be sautéed with the onions for an immediate kick.
• Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper: Stir in chili powder or cayenne pepper during cooking; start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the spice level without altering the dish’s integrity.
• Garam Masala: Increasing the amount of garam masala can also add depth and warmth to the curry.

Adjusting spice levels allows you to tailor the dish to your heat preference!

What Side Dishes Pair Well with Butter Bean Curry?

Butter bean curry pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some popular options:

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the curry sauce.
• Naan Bread: Soft naan is great for scooping up the curry.
• Roti or Chapati: These flatbreads are another excellent accompaniment.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that complements the curry well.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in the curry.

Feel free to combine several sides for a more elaborate meal!

Can I Freeze the Curry After It’s Been Reheated?

It is not recommended to freeze curry after it has been reheated. Freezing and reheating multiple times can affect food safety and quality. Instead:

1. Cook your butter bean curry and allow it to cool completely.
2. Store it in an airtight container before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat only once before serving.

Following these guidelines will help maintain both safety and flavor in your butter bean curry!