Name: Easy Falafel Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 medium onion (finely diced); 4 garlic cloves (finely sliced); 1-inch knob of fresh ginger (finely chopped); 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced); 1 medium zucchini (finely diced); 4 tablespoons tikka masala curry paste; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup coconut milk; 12-14 pieces falafel; 2 cups spinach; A handful of fresh cilantro (roughly chopped); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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There’s something heartwarming about a steaming bowl of Easy Falafel Curry wafting through your home. The air fills with fragrant spices and creamy coconut notes, beckoning you to take a seat and join in on the flavor adventure. Picture the vibrant colors of juicy red bell peppers and fresh spinach mingling in a luscious, velvety sauce—a feast for both the eyes and your taste buds. This is the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, making you feel cozy inside, no matter the season.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Falafel Curry
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Falafel Curry

I can’t help but remember the first time I tried a dish like this during a casual dinner with friends. We were huddled around the table, laughter ricocheting off the walls, bonding over good food and great stories. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick yet delicious. This Easy Falafel Curry is just that—a thrilling twist on falafel that’s ready to serve in about 30 minutes, perfect for uplifting any ordinary day. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tikka masala and creamy coconut creates a rich, satisfying dish.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautifully colorful and aromatic, it makes any table feel inviting.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it for dinner or as a delightful lunch option; it’s filling and nutritious!
Diet-Friendly Options: This recipe is vegan-friendly, and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon coconut oil: Adds a subtle sweetness and tropical flair; avocado oil or olive oil can be used as alternatives.
1 medium onion (finely diced): This forms the flavor base, lending a soothing sweetness; shallots can work in a pinch for a more delicate taste.
4 garlic cloves (finely sliced): Infuses a delightful fragrance; fresh minced ginger can add an extra layer of zest.
1-inch knob of fresh ginger (finely chopped): Sunny and warm spice that brightens the dish; ground ginger could be substituted, but fresh is best for flavor.
1 medium red bell pepper (sliced): Sweet and tender, it adds crunch; feel free to use yellow or orange peppers for vibrant variety.
1 medium zucchini (finely diced): Keeps the dish light and nutritious; summer squash can replace it if desired.
4 tablespoons tikka masala curry paste: The heart of this recipe, offering bold, tangy flavors; homemade or store-bought options are both tasty.
1 cup tomato sauce: Creates a rich base for the curry; crushed tomatoes can also lend a nice texture.
1 cup coconut milk: Adds creaminess and balance; substitute with almond milk for a lighter version, although it won’t be as rich.
12-14 pieces falafel: Pre-cooked varieties simplify meal prep; make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
2 cups spinach: Fresh and vibrant, it wilts down nicely; kale can be a hearty substitute.
A handful of fresh cilantro (roughly chopped): Brightens up the dish with a fresh kick; parsley can work as a milder alternative.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for elevating the flavors to where they need to be.

How to Make Easy Falafel Curry

Heat the Oil: In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat until shimmering. This will create a perfect backdrop for your aromatics. Watch closely as the oil heats up, then add the diced onion.

Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in the onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s soft and slightly golden. Inhale the warm, sweet scent as it wafts upwards. Next, add the sliced garlic and finely chopped ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant; you want those flavors to bloom.

Cook the Veggies: Now, it’s time for the red bell pepper and zucchini! Stir them into the pan and let them cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. You want them softened but still with a bit of a bite—who doesn’t love a little crunch?

Add the Spice: Stir in the tikka masala curry paste and let it cook for 1 minute. Don’t rush through this step; this is where the magic happens! Then pour in the tomato sauce and coconut milk, stirring until everything is beautifully combined and smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, bubbling around the edges.

Incorporate the Falafel: Carefully nestle 12-14 pieces of falafel into the simmering sauce, allowing them to soak up all that flavor for about 8 to 10 minutes. Give it a gentle stir once or twice to avoid breaking apart the falafel; you want them to stay deliciously whole.

Finishing Touches: Add in the 2 cups of spinach and stir until just wilted. With the creamy sauce and vibrant vegetables, this dish is coming to life! Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for that final burst of freshness right before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Once you’ve enjoyed your Easy Falafel Curry, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, freeze the curry for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to refresh the sauce’s texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the zucchini to keep its delightful texture intact; you want just enough warmth to bring out its flavors.
If you’re making your own falafel, chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Experiment with different vegetables like peas or carrots for added color and nutrients.
For an extra kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics.
This dish is perfect for batch cooking; make a double batch and freeze half for those busier nights!

The Easy Falafel Curry packs a warm punch of flavor that makes meal times extra special. It’s loaded with nourishing ingredients, and most importantly, it’s fun to make! Feel free to play with the spices, toss in your favorite veggies, or even try it over rice or quinoa for a heartier option. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite of this delightful dish!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use homemade falafel for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using homemade falafel can elevate the dish even more, as you can control the spices and flavors to your liking. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the curry to warm through and absorb the delicious sauce.

Is this curry spicy?

The level of spice depends on the tikka masala paste you use. Many varieties are mild but can range in heat. If you prefer a milder curry, look for paste labeled as mild and feel free to adjust according to your heat tolerance!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this curry is excellent for meal prep! You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.

What can I serve with falafel curry?

Pair your curry with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a simple green salad to balance the richness. You could also add a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon over the top for an extra zing!