Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that marries bold, spicy flavors with nutrition, look no further than this Black Bean Curry! Without the heaviness of cream, this hearty meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner while still packing a flavorful punch. It brings a burst of spices together in a warm, inviting bowl that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden.
2. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Mix in the spices: cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Stir well for a minute to release their flavors.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken.
5. Incorporate black beans and coconut milk into the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add salt according to your taste and mix well.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan on the side.
This Black Bean Curry not only delivers a delightful medley of flavors but also offers a wholesome, guilt-free meal option. Enjoy every bite of this nutritious and delicious dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Ginger
Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Mix in the spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. Stir well for a minute to release their flavors.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, which will allow it to thicken.
Step 6: Add Black Beans and Coconut Milk
Incorporate 2 cans (15 oz each) of drained and rinsed black beans and 1 cup of coconut milk into the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Step 7: Season with Salt
Add salt to taste and mix well.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with cooked rice or naan on the side.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the curry with your choice of rice or naan to complement the flavors.
Storage Tips
Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice Level Adjustment
To adjust the spiciness, consider adding a pinch of red chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Heating olive oil and sautéing onions until golden creates a flavorful base for the curry.
Minced Aromatics
Adding minced garlic and ginger enhances the dish’s fragrance and depth of flavor.
Spice Blooming
Mixing spices in the pan for a minute allows essential oils to release, intensifying the curry’s essence.
Simmering
Simmering chopped tomatoes and then the entire mixture melds flavors and thickens the sauce perfectly.
Final Seasoning
Adding salt at the end allows for better control over the dish’s flavor balance.
FAQ
Can I make this curry in advance?
Yes, the flavors develop over time, making it a great dish to prepare ahead of time.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely, this curry freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Can I use other beans instead of black beans?
Certainly! You could substitute with kidney beans or chickpeas for different flavors and textures.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry?
To control the heat, you can add less spicy peppers or reduce the amount of garam masala.
What can I serve with this curry?
It pairs beautifully with cooked rice or naan, but you could also serve it with quinoa or a salad for a lighter option.
Conclusion
This Black Bean Curry without cream is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Biryani
A flavorful rice dish that complements the black bean curry perfectly.
Chickpea Salad
A refreshing side dish that adds crunch and lightness.
Stuffed Naan
Cheesy or spiced stuffed naan makes for a great accompaniment to scoop up the curry.
Spicy Lentil Soup
A nutritious, comforting soup that aligns well with the bold flavors.
Curried Cauliflower
A delightful vegetable side that adds additional layers of flavor.
