If you’re looking for a meat-free dinner that beats a takeaway hands down, Dee’s Meat-Free Thai Red Curry is the one to try. It’s quick, packed with veg, and ready in minutes — perfect for a busy weeknight when everyone’s hungry and you don’t have much time to cook.
This recipe serves 2 hungry people, so double up if you’re feeding the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 tin of coconut milk
- Frozen green beans
- 2 teaspoons of red curry paste (add an extra teaspoon if you like it hot)
- Bamboo shoots (tinned or jarred), chopped into strips
- Half a block of tofu
- Half a green pepper, sliced
- Half a red pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Oil
- Rice
There are some excellent shop-bought Thai curry pastes available if you don’t have time to make your own from scratch — a great shortcut on a busy evening.
Equipment
- Chopping board
- Baking tray
- 2 large pots, one with a lid
- Large colander
- Sharp knife
Method
1. Pre-heat the oven to 220°C.
2. Cut the tofu into small squares and place in a clean tea towel. Squeeze out any excess water.
3. Place the tofu on a baking tray and sprinkle with oil, salt and pepper if you like. Bake for 10 minutes.
4. Heat a large pan or wok and add the curry paste and coconut milk, stirring all the time.
5. Add all the vegetables, cover and cook for 10 minutes.
6. Cook the rice according to the packet instructions.
7. Serve into bowls and top with the baked tofu.
Tip: The vegetables will still cook through even if they’re not fully covered by the coconut milk. If you like extra heat, stir through some chopped fresh red chillies at the end.
FAQs
Can I make this curry ahead of time?
Yes — the vegetable and coconut milk curry base reheats well. For the best texture, bake the tofu fresh just before serving so it stays firm.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans work just as well. Trim and chop them to a similar size before adding them to the pan.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, as written all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a good option for vegan and vegetarian family meals.
Can I swap the tofu for another protein?
Yes — if tofu isn’t a favourite in your house, chickpeas or extra vegetables work well as a substitute while keeping the dish meat-free.
Related Recipes You Might Like
- More meat-free family dinner ideas
- Quick midweek recipes the whole family will eat
- Easy ways to get kids trying new vegetables
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