Mediterranean-Spiced Vegetable Curry with Fragrant Basmati Rice

This Mediterranean-Spiced Vegetable Curry is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. The curry is made with a variety of vegetables, including sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and zucchini, and is simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. The curry is served over basmati rice and is garnished with cilantro and toasted almonds.

This recipe is inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean and India. I first had a similar dish at a restaurant in Istanbul, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of spices, vegetables, and rice was so delicious and satisfying. I've since recreated the dish at home many times, and it's always a hit with my family and friends.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Red bell pepper
• Sweet potato
• Cauliflower
• Zucchini

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add bell pepper, sweet potato, cauliflower, and zucchini, and cook until vegetables begin to soften.
5. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
7. Meanwhile, cook basmati rice according to package directions.
8. Serve curry over rice, garnished with cilantro and toasted almonds.

Why It Works

• The combination of spices in this curry is what makes it so flavorful. The cumin, coriander, and turmeric give the curry a warm and earthy flavor, while the red chili flakes add a bit of heat.
• The vegetables in this curry are cooked until they are tender but still have a bit of bite to them. This gives the curry a nice texture and prevents the vegetables from becoming mushy.
• The basmati rice is the perfect accompaniment to this curry. The rice is fluffy and light, and it helps to soak up all of the delicious sauce.