BY: Wildwood Organics
As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the embrace of comfort food to warm both body and soul, is there. The season calls for hearty, wholesome dishes that provide not just nourishment but a sense of coziness and contentment. Comfort food in winter is all about rich flavours, satisfying textures, and the joy of a home-cooked meal shared with loved ones. The quintessential comfort food perfect for cold weather has got to be a warming curry, right? Easy to prepare and packed with goodness and delicious seasonal ingredients, it’s a dish that will warm you up in no time…especially if you like your chilli!
Why Comfort Food?
Comfort food is aptly named because it brings a sense of well-being and nostalgia. These dishes often remind us of family gatherings, holidays, and the warmth of home. In winter, when days are shorter and temperatures drop, comfort food becomes even more appealing, especially after a long day at work. It’s not just about filling your tummy; it’s about creating warmth and a sense of all is right with the world. Whether it’s a bowl of soup, a plate of mashed potatoes, a rich casserole, or a spicy curry, comfort food has the power to lift spirits and provide a much-needed respite from the cold.
Vegetarian Thai Pumpkin Curry with Coconut Rice
Ingredients:
For the Curry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2-3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
2 cups pumpkin, peeled and diced
1 red capsicum sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup vegetable stock
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 cup baby spinach
Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Crushed peanuts or cashews (for garnish)
Sliced red chilli (for garnish)
For the Coconut Rice:
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Method:
For the Coconut Rice:
1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff and Rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
For the Curry:
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Curry Paste: Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld with the aromatics.
3. Add Vegetables and Coconut Milk: Add the diced pumpkin, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Season: Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or lime juice if needed.
6. Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt into the curry for 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve: Serve the curry over the coconut rice. Garnish with slices of red chilli to taste, fresh coriander and crushed peanuts or cashews.
Enjoy this flavoursome and comforting Vegetarian Thai Pumpkin Curry with Coconut Rice, a perfect blend of spices and sweetness for a satisfying meal.
Winter comfort food like this delicious curry not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. This winter, embrace the season with dishes that provide both comfort and warmth, turning every meal into an opportunity to create cherished memories.
0 Comments