Creating a “blue” curry may sound unusual, as traditional Thai curries range in colors like green, red, and yellow. However, with a touch of creativity using natural, vibrant ingredients, we can create a unique Vegan Thai Blue Curry that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Here’s how to make this colorful dish:
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1–2 tablespoons blue spirulina powder (for color)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Thai green curry paste (or homemade for a milder, customizable flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground lemongrass (optional, for added authenticity)
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup sliced zucchini
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (preferably yellow or orange for color contrast)
- 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes (for protein)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or green onions (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add Curry Paste and Color
- Stir in the Thai green curry paste and lemongrass powder, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the blue spirulina powder, stirring it into the aromatics and curry paste for a beautiful blue color.
3. Pour in Liquids
- Add the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring well to mix the spirulina evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Vegetables
- Add cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
5. Add Protein and Season
- Stir in the chickpeas or tofu, soy sauce, and maple syrup or coconut sugar for balance. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the blue curry into bowls, garnishing with cilantro, Thai basil, or green onions. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the blue curry over jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a light cucumber salad for added crunch and freshness.
Tips
- Adjusting Spice: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies.
- Blue Color Tip: Blue spirulina gives a vibrant blue hue naturally, but start with a small amount and add more until you reach your desired color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This Vegan Thai Blue Curry is a fun twist on traditional curry, with a creamy coconut base, colorful veggies, and a surprising pop of color that’s sure to impress! Enjoy this wholesome, plant-based meal as a unique centerpiece at your next dinner.