Between classes, exams, and social life, eating healthy in college can feel like a challenge. But what if I told you that you could whip up a delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal in just 30 minutes? Red Thai Curry is a dish that’s creamy, full of flavor, and loaded with vegetables to keep you fueled throughout the week. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, making it perfect for any college student looking to get more vegetables into their diet.
Ingredients:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp red Thai curry paste
– 1 tbsp fish sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
– ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish
– Cooked jasmine or basmati rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pan or pot, add olive oil and throw in your diced onions and sauté until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Vegetables – Toss in the red bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and broccoli. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
3. Build the Flavor – Stir in the red Thai curry paste, making sure it evenly coats the vegetables. Cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
4. Simmer the Curry – Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring well. Add fish sauce and brown sugar for balance. If you want extra spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Let the curry simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Finish & Serve – Squeeze in fresh lime juice for a zesty finish. Serve hot over a bowl of jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for College Students
This veggie-packed Red Thai curry is a lifesaver for busy students. It’s quick to make, meaning you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—most ingredients are pantry staples, and you can swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand. The coconut milk and curry paste add a rich depth of flavor, while the veggies provide essential nutrients to keep your energy levels up. Bonus: it makes excellent leftovers, so you can cook once and eat multiple times, saving time and money.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long study session or an easy way to meal prep for the week, this red Thai curry is a go-to dish that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Give it a try, and enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s both satisfying and stress-free!