Creamy Potato Curry Vegan

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This creamy potato curry brings comfort in every bite, blending tender potatoes and chickpeas in a luscious coconut milk base. Vibrant spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala add layers of aromatic warmth, while fresh ginger and garlic build delicious depth. With its rich, velvety sauce and gentle heat, this vegan-friendly dish is quick to prepare in one pot—ideal for satisfying dinners or meal prep. Serve with rice, naan, or top with cilantro and lime for extra freshness. Enjoy bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and heartiness in a simple, nourishing meal.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Authored By Elisa
Updated on Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:07:53 GMT
A bowl of creamy potato curry with a lime wedge on top. Bookmark
A bowl of creamy potato curry with a lime wedge on top. | recipesbyelisa.com

Creamy Potato Curry is your new go-to comfort meal for those days when you crave something wholesome and full of flavor. This one-pot recipe blends fluffy potatoes and protein-rich chickpeas with aromatic spices and a velvety coconut milk sauce. It is vegan and dairy free yet incredibly rich and deeply satisfying. The warm spice mix and creamy sauce turn a simple dinner into something you genuinely look forward to enjoying.

I first made this after a long, chilly day and the warmth of the spices felt like the biggest hug. My friends now ask for it every time they visit in autumn.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: choose firm potatoes like Yukon Gold or red so they hold their shape and soak up the curry flavor
  • Coconut milk: use full-fat for the creamiest texture and check for coconut milk with minimal additives
  • Chickpeas: canned chickpeas work great for convenience rinse well before using for the best texture
  • Onion, garlic and ginger: pick fresh garlic cloves and a plump piece of ginger because this is the flavor foundation if you can use yellow onion for its mild balanced sweetness
  • Spices (curry powder, turmeric, cumin, garam masala): ensure your spices are fresh and aromatic for maximum depth you can toast your spices in a dry pan first to unlock extra aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:
Cook chopped onions minced garlic and grated ginger over medium heat for about four minutes stir often until onions turn soft and translucent do not rush this step because it sets up a sweet and savory flavor base
Bloom the Spices:
Add curry powder turmeric cumin and garam masala stir into the aromatics for one minute until the kitchen smells wonderfully fragrant this releases the oils in the spices and wakes up their flavors
Add the Vegetables:
Stir in diced potatoes carrots and chopped tomatoes mix well so all vegetables are coated in spices cook for about six minutes to start softening the veggies and locking in the spice flavors
Simmer with Liquids:
Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk then add chickpeas and peas give everything a big stir bring to a gentle simmer partially cover the pot cook for fifteen to twenty minutes until potatoes are fork tender and the curry has thickened stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom
Finish and Serve:
Taste your curry and adjust with salt pepper and red chili flakes for a little heat sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness serve piping hot over fluffy rice or scoop with warm naan
A bowl of creamy potato curry. Bookmark
A bowl of creamy potato curry. | recipesbyelisa.com

My favorite ingredient here is coconut milk because it transforms the whole dish with a silken finish and slight sweetness. My niece once called this curry a cozy winter blanket in a bowl and she is always right.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for three to four days. Let the curry cool completely before storing in an airtight container. You can also freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to two months. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring the creamy consistency back.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sweet potatoes work beautifully instead of regular potatoes and create a hint of natural sweetness. If you are out of chickpeas try cooked lentils or white beans for a similar protein boost. If you need to avoid coconut milk use cashew cream or unsweetened soy milk blended with a spoonful of nut butter for richness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy over jasmine or basmati rice so the grains can soak up every bit of sauce. Warm naan or whole grain flatbread are perfect for dipping and add a pleasant chew. For a pop of freshness scatter lime wedges and extra cilantro on top before serving.

A bowl of creamy potato curry with limes and carrots. Bookmark
A bowl of creamy potato curry with limes and carrots. | recipesbyelisa.com

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe draws from Indian and Southeast Asian curry traditions where potatoes and coconut milk became pantry staples through centuries of spice trade and culinary exchange. The blend of earthy spices and creamy elements creates a dish that feels both global and deeply comforting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What makes this curry so creamy?

The creamy texture comes from coconut milk, which creates a smooth, rich sauce without any dairy. It also adds subtle sweetness and balances the spices.

→ Can I use different potatoes?

Yes! Any waxy potato works well, such as Yukon gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor and color.

→ Are there protein alternatives to chickpeas?

Lentils, white beans, or even tofu can be used in place of chickpeas for added variety or extra plant-based protein.

→ What are the best sides for serving?

Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, warm naan bread, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and lime all complement the curry beautifully.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit chili flakes for a milder version, or add more for a bolder, spicier kick to suit your taste preferences.

→ Can this curry be made ahead?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep or batch cooking for the week.

Creamy Potato Curry Vegan

Creamy potatoes and chickpeas simmered in coconut milk with aromatic spices for a hearty, vegan main dish.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Total Time Required
45 minutes
Authored By: Elisa

Type of Recipe: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: Indian-inspired

Servings Count: 4 Number of Servings (Serves 4 generous portions)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan Option Available, Suitable for Vegetarians, Gluten-Free Choice, Dairy-Free Alternative

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Vegetables

Ingredient 01 600 g potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 cm cubes
Ingredient 02 1 large onion, finely chopped
Ingredient 03 2 medium carrots, sliced
Ingredient 04 2 medium tomatoes, diced
Ingredient 05 2 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 06 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Ingredient 07 100 g frozen or fresh green peas

→ Legumes

Ingredient 08 400 g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

Ingredient 09 400 ml full-fat coconut milk
Ingredient 10 300 ml vegetable stock

→ Spices & Seasonings

Ingredient 11 2 tablespoons curry powder
Ingredient 12 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Ingredient 13 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
Ingredient 14 1 teaspoon garam masala
Ingredient 15 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes, or to taste
Ingredient 16 Salt, to taste
Ingredient 17 Black pepper, to taste

→ Fresh Herbs & Garnishes

Ingredient 18 2 tablespoons fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
Ingredient 19 Lime wedges, to serve

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 02

Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are aromatic and evenly coat the onion mixture.

Step 03

Add diced potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. Stir well to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening and absorb the spice blend.

Step 04

Pour in coconut milk and vegetable stock. Add chickpeas and green peas. Stir thoroughly, bring to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and the curry thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 05

Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Garnish with chopped coriander and a squeeze of lime just before serving. Enjoy hot with steamed rice or naan.

Extra Tips and Tricks

  1. For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for the final few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
  2. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; flavors develop further overnight.

Must-Have Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Chopping board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Always double-check ingredient lists for allergens and seek advice if you're unsure.
  • Contains coconut (tree nut allergen for some individuals)

Nutritional Information (per portion)

The provided details are purely informational and should not replace professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 410
  • Fat Amount: 16 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 56 grams
  • Protein Amount: 11 grams