Jamie Oliver’s Vegetable Curry is a vibrant, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a wholesome meal. Loaded with colorful vegetables, warming spices, and a rich, creamy sauce, this curry is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a meat-free option or just want a delicious one-pot meal, this vegetable curry is sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Bursting with Flavor: A balanced blend of aromatic spices makes this curry deeply flavorful.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with fiber-rich vegetables that make it filling and nutritious.
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps make it easy to prepare, even on busy days.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
- Customizable Ingredients: Works well with a variety of vegetables, allowing flexibility based on preference or seasonality.

Other Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Slow-Cooked Chilli Con Carne
- Jamie Oliver Chocolate Pots
- Jamie Oliver Haddock Fishcakes
What is Jamie Oliver’s Vegetable Curry?
Jamie Oliver’s Vegetable Curry is a deliciously spiced dish made with a mix of fresh vegetables, coconut milk, and a blend of traditional Indian-inspired spices. This easy-to-make curry is rich, creamy, and perfect for serving with rice or flatbreads.
Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry Ingredients
For the Curry Base:
A well-seasoned base creates a rich and flavorful foundation for this dish.
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
- 1 red chili (finely chopped, optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 250ml vegetable stock
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Vegetables:
Using a variety of vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition to the curry.
- 1 sweet potato (peeled and diced)
- 1 carrot (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 zucchini (chopped)
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1 handful fresh spinach or kale (optional)
For Garnish and Serving:
The right toppings enhance the flavor and texture of this curry.
- Fresh coriander (chopped)
- Lime wedges
- Plain yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Steamed basmati rice or naan bread
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Cooking the onions, garlic, and spices first allows them to release their natural flavors, creating a fragrant curry base.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
- Add garlic, ginger, and red chili, stirring for another minute.
Step 2: Build the Spice Layer
Toasting the spices in oil brings out their depth and prevents a raw, powdery taste.
- Stir in ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and paprika.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, ensuring the spices don’t burn.
Step 3: Create the Curry Sauce
A rich and creamy sauce forms the heart of the dish, helping the vegetables absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable stock.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Cooking the vegetables in stages ensures they cook evenly while retaining their texture.
- Add the diced sweet potato, carrot, and cauliflower first as they take longer to cook.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and chickpeas, and cook for another 10 minutes until tender.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for the final 2 minutes.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning
Balancing flavors at the end helps bring out the best taste in the dish.
- Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- If the curry is too thick, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
The right finishing touches enhance the overall dish, adding freshness and texture.
- Spoon the curry into bowls and sprinkle with fresh coriander.
- Serve with steamed rice or warm naan bread.
- Add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess, if desired.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry
Pairing the curry with the right sides enhances the meal and balances the flavors.
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy rice pairs perfectly with the creamy curry.
- Naan Bread or Chapati: Great for scooping up the flavorful sauce.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that balances the heat.
- Mango Chutney: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement the spices.
- Pickled Onions: A tangy, crunchy side that enhances the flavors.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry
Following these tips ensures the best results every time you make this dish.
- Toast Your Spices: Dry-roasting them first brings out a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensures they cook uniformly and retain their texture.
- Simmer for Best Flavor: Let the curry cook long enough for all the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more coconut milk or stock for a thinner sauce, or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
- Balance the Heat: Reduce chili for a mild curry or add extra for more spice.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for different ingredients and flavors based on your preference.
- Protein-Packed Version: Add tofu, paneer, or lentils for extra protein.
- Extra Creamy Curry: Stir in cashew cream or extra coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or extra fresh chili for more heat.
- Thai-Inspired Twist: Use Thai red curry paste instead of Indian spices for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or cashews for added texture.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry ?
Proper storage keeps the curry fresh and maintains its deep, rich flavors.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Best Storage Tip: Let the curry cool before storing to prevent condensation buildup.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry Leftovers?
Reheating the curry properly helps maintain its flavor and texture.
- Stovetop Method: Reheat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
- Microwave Approach: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between for even warming.
- Slow Cooker Reheat: Let it warm on low for an hour if serving later.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
This dish is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome meal.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in this curry?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe and save preparation time. Add them directly to the curry and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they heat through properly.
How do I make vegetable curry thicker?
To thicken the vegetable curry, let it simmer longer to reduce excess liquid or mash some of the vegetables. Adding a spoonful of coconut cream or blended cashews also creates a creamier texture.
What vegetables work best in this curry?
Butternut squash, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, cauliflower, and spinach are great choices. These vegetables absorb the curry flavors well and maintain a good texture after cooking.
Can I make vegetable curry without coconut milk?
Yes, substitute coconut milk with cashew cream, almond milk, or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. If avoiding dairy, vegetable stock or tomato purée can be used for a lighter version.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Vegetable Curry is a delicious and nourishing meal that’s packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether served with rice, naan, or on its own, this curry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this easy, flavorful recipe today and enjoy a homemade, comforting dish that’s full of goodness!
Print
Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Vegetable Curry is a vibrant, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a wholesome meal. Loaded with colorful vegetables, warming spices, and a rich, creamy sauce, this curry is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a meat-free option or just want a delicious one-pot meal, this vegetable curry is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Curry Base:
A well-seasoned base creates a rich and flavorful foundation for this dish.
-
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
-
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
-
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
-
- 1 red chili (finely chopped, optional)
-
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
-
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
-
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
-
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
-
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
-
- 1 teaspoon paprika
-
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
-
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
-
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
-
- 250ml vegetable stock
-
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Vegetables:
Using a variety of vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition to the curry.
-
- 1 sweet potato (peeled and diced)
-
- 1 carrot (sliced)
-
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
-
- 1 zucchini (chopped)
-
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
-
- 1 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
-
- 1 handful fresh spinach or kale (optional)
For Garnish and Serving:
The right toppings enhance the flavor and texture of this curry.
-
- Fresh coriander (chopped)
-
- Lime wedges
-
- Plain yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
-
- Steamed basmati rice or naan bread
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Cooking the onions, garlic, and spices first allows them to release their natural flavors, creating a fragrant curry base.
-
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
-
- Add the cumin seeds and let them toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
-
- Add garlic, ginger, and red chili, stirring for another minute.
Step 2: Build the Spice Layer
Toasting the spices in oil brings out their depth and prevents a raw, powdery taste.
-
- Stir in ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and paprika.
-
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, ensuring the spices don’t burn.
Step 3: Create the Curry Sauce
A rich and creamy sauce forms the heart of the dish, helping the vegetables absorb the flavors.
-
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
-
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable stock.
-
- Season with salt and black pepper, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Cooking the vegetables in stages ensures they cook evenly while retaining their texture.
-
- Add the diced sweet potato, carrot, and cauliflower first as they take longer to cook.
-
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and chickpeas, and cook for another 10 minutes until tender.
-
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for the final 2 minutes.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning
Balancing flavors at the end helps bring out the best taste in the dish.
-
- Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice.
-
- If the curry is too thick, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
The right finishing touches enhance the overall dish, adding freshness and texture.
-
- Spoon the curry into bowls and sprinkle with fresh coriander.
-
- Serve with steamed rice or warm naan bread.
-
- Add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess, if desired.