Name: 15-Minute Thai Curry For One
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2/3 cup full-fat canned coconut milk; 1 tablespoon green curry paste or your curry paste of choice; 1 tablespoon coconut oil or avocado oil; 1 to 2 cups chopped raw vegetables of your choice (bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, etc.); 4 to 6 ounces animal protein of your choice (leftover chicken works great!); 1 green onion, chopped; 2/3 cup cooked brown rice

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor, look no further than this 15-Minute Thai Curry For One. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something comforting yet exotic, this curry comes together in a flash. With rich coconut milk, vibrant curry paste, and your choice of fresh vegetables and protein, you’ll find that this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Let’s dive into how to whip this up in no time!

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of this 15-Minute Thai Curry For One lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Using full-fat canned coconut milk creates a creamy base that perfectly balances the heat of the curry paste. The choice of vegetables and protein means you can tailor the dish to your tastes or what you have on hand. Plus, the quick cooking time means you can satisfy your cravings without hours of effort in the kitchen.

What Goes In

To create your delicious curry, gather the following ingredients:

2/3 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
1 tablespoon green curry paste or your curry paste of choice
1 tablespoon coconut oil or avocado oil
1 to 2 cups chopped raw vegetables of your choice (bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, etc.)
4 to 6 ounces animal protein of your choice (leftover chicken works great!)
1 green onion, chopped
2/3 cup cooked brown rice

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment:

A medium saucepan or skillet
A cutting board and sharp knife
A measuring cup and tablespoon
A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring

Cooking 15-Minute Thai Curry For One: The Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces and set them aside. If you’re using leftover chicken or another protein, ensure it’s cut into small pieces for quick heating.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In your medium saucepan or skillet, heat the coconut oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Allow it to melt and become hot but not smoking.

Step 3: Add the Curry Paste

Once the oil is ready, add the green curry paste to the pan. Stir it around for about 30 seconds to release its aromatic flavors. This step is crucial for maximizing the taste of your 15-Minute Thai Curry For One.

Step 4: Pour in the Coconut Milk

Next, carefully pour the full-fat coconut milk into the pan. Stir well to combine the curry paste and coconut milk, creating a rich sauce.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Protein

Now it’s time to add your chopped vegetables and protein to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the protein is heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, stir in the chopped green onions. This adds a fresh crunch to your curry.

Step 7: Serve Over Rice

Serve your 15-Minute Thai Curry For One over a bed of cooked brown rice. Enjoy your meal hot, and relish the vibrant flavors of Thailand right in your kitchen!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you prefer a plant-based version of this 15-Minute Thai Curry For One, consider these swaps:

Replace animal protein with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
Use vegetable broth instead of coconut milk for a lighter option.
Opt for a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots for added flavor and texture.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your 15-Minute Thai Curry For One turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Don’t rush the step of heating the curry paste; it enhances the flavor significantly.
Be cautious not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender yet crisp.
Using too much curry paste can make the dish overly spicy; start with less and adjust to taste.
Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your 15-Minute Thai Curry For One:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain creaminess.
Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my curry is too spicy?

If you find your curry is too spicy, you can balance it out by adding more coconut milk or a bit of sugar. This will mellow the heat without compromising the dish.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the curry and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the rice when serving for the best texture.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

You can use any vegetables you love or have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and spinach are all great options that cook quickly and pair well with the curry flavor.

Can I freeze this curry?

Yes, you can freeze the curry! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered the 15-Minute Thai Curry For One, try your hand at these delicious recipes:

Bring It Home

This 15-Minute Thai Curry For One is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a delightful meal in just a fraction of the time. It’s a refreshing reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing a guest, this curry is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the burst of flavors, the creamy texture, and the ease of preparation. Happy cooking!