Name: Peanut Butter Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 small red chili pepper, chopped; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes; ½ cup (100 g) natural peanut butter; 1 can (13.5 fl.oz/ 400 ml) coconut milk; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups (150 g) broccoli florets; A handful fresh cilantro (coriander)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 75 reviews

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances warmth, creaminess, and a hint of spice, this Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a vibrant, comforting curry that combines the rich, nutty flavor of natural peanut butter with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just looking to shake up dinner, this recipe offers a wonderful blend of textures and colors, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The top image shows a thick, light orange sauce base filling a large metal pot. On the left side, there is a cluster of round beige chickpeas, while on the right side and covering part of the chickpeas are small, bright green broccoli florets. The bottom image presents the same pot with the sauce now fully mixed with the chickpeas and broccoli, turning into a creamy orange stew. On top, fresh chopped green herbs, likely cilantro, are spread evenly. Both images are set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing something unique to the dish. From the creamy coconut milk to the zing of fresh ginger and the hearty chickpeas, every element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and adding nutritious goodness.

Avocado oil: A neutral oil that allows the spices and aromatics to shine while adding a healthy touch.
Medium onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
Large garlic cloves, finely chopped: Infuses the curry with its classic pungent aroma and flavor.
Fresh ginger, grated: Provides a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the dish.
Small red chili pepper, chopped: Adds just the right amount of spicy heat to balance the richness.
Garam masala: A fragrant blend of spices that adds warm, earthy notes.
Curry powder: Complements the garam masala with additional spicy complexity.
Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz / 400 g): Gives the curry a tangy base and beautiful color.
Natural peanut butter (½ cup / 100 g): The star ingredient that lends creaminess and a distinctive nutty flavor.
Coconut milk (1 can, 13.5 fl.oz / 400 ml): Envelops the curry in smooth, tropical richness.
Chickpeas (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds protein and a satisfying bite to the texture.
Broccoli florets (2 cups / 150 g): Bring crunch, color, and a subtle earthiness to the dish.
Fresh cilantro (a handful): Finishes the dish with a fresh, herbal lift.

How to Make Peanut Butter Curry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating avocado oil in a large, deep pan. Add the finely diced onion and cook over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step unlocks the sweetness of the onion and creates the perfect base for your curry.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Chili

Next, stir in the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and red chili pepper. Cook for another minute to release their vibrant aromas. These ingredients introduce layers of heat and brightness that really awaken the palate.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the garam masala and curry powder, stirring well to coat the aromatics. This step ensures the spices toast lightly, enhancing their natural flavors and making your curry even more fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, natural peanut butter, and coconut milk, stirring the mixture until it’s smooth and combined. The peanut butter will melt into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture while the tomatoes add a subtle tartness that perfectly balances the richness.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Simmer

Toss in the drained chickpeas and broccoli florets. Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the broccoli to become tender but still crisp, and the chickpeas to soak up those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Cilantro

Just before serving, stir in the fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste. The cilantro adds a bright, fresh note that lifts the whole dish, making it really come alive.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Curry Recipe

The image shows two stages of cooking in a dark gray Staub pot with handles on both sides, placed on a white marbled surface. In the first stage, there is one main layer with a base of cooked chopped vegetables in a brownish color with bits of red and orange, and on top of that, a thick, bright red tomato sauce layer is added in the center, covering about half of the vegetable layer. In the second stage, the mixed vegetable and tomato sauce layer is now partially covered by two new layers: a light brown creamy dollop on the left and a white cream poured mostly on the right side, blending slightly with the red sauce and vegetables under it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Peanut Butter Curry Recipe, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch and a deeper peanut flavor. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lime juice also brightens the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This curry pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed basmati rice or warm, soft naan bread. Both help soak up the creamy sauce and provide a comforting backdrop to the bold flavors of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the curry in individual bowls garnished with cilantro and peanuts, alongside a colorful side salad or some roasted vegetables. You can also turn it into a vibrant bowl by adding avocado slices, pickled onions, or even a sunny-side-up egg on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your peanut butter curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This Peanut Butter Curry Recipe freezes well, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir well and heat until warmed through for best results.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of natural smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra texture dimension to the curry, giving little bursts of peanut flavor in every bite. Just be aware it might slightly change the sauce’s smoothness.

Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian as it contains no animal products. Just double-check your garam masala and curry powder to ensure they don’t have any hidden animal-derived ingredients.

Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to swap broccoli for cauliflower, green beans, or even spinach. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so the veggies stay perfectly tender but not mushy.

How spicy is this curry?

The heat level is moderate because of the single red chili pepper. You can adjust the spice by adding more chili or reducing it if you prefer a milder curry.

What can I serve with this curry if I don’t want rice or naan?

Try serving it over quinoa, millet, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Roasted sweet potatoes or a side of steamed greens would also make delicious, healthy companions.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is a wonderful way to bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of exotic flavor into your kitchen. It’s easy to make, packed with nourishing ingredients, and endlessly satisfying. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you do, it’s bound to become a personal favorite in your recipe collection.