Red Thai Curry Risotto is a mouthwatering fusion dish that combines the creamy, comforting texture of Italian risotto with the bold, spicy flavors of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of Thai food or risotto, this dish is a must-try. The next time you feel like trying out some new recipes, add this one to your list! In my opinion if you love risotto and you love Thai food, this red curry risotto recipe is absolutely delish!
What is Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto?
Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto is a unique dish that marries the richness of Italian risotto with the aromatic and spicy notes of Thai red curry paste. This combination creates a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore new flavors while sticking to a plant-based diet.
Why choose a vegan version? Not only is it healthier and more sustainable, but it also opens up the dish to a wider range of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this fabulous meal. However if you are not vegan, chicken broth and even parmesan cheese can be used in this dish.
Ingredients & Substitutions for Red Thai Curry Risotto
Essential Ingredients
To make this vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto, you’ll need:
- Arborio Rice: The foundation of any good risotto, Aborio rice is a short-grain rice that becomes creamy as it cooks.
- Red Thai Curry Paste: The star of the show, this paste infuses the risotto with its signature spicy, aromatic flavor.
- Coconut Cream: This adds richness to the dish, making the risotto creamy without using dairy.
- Shallots, Garlic, and Fresh Ginger: These aromatics form the flavor base, adding depth to the dish.
- Vegetable Stock or Broth: The liquid component that cooks the rice, infusing it with flavor.
- Lime Juice: A touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- Fresh Vegetables (Green Beans, Bell Peppers, Snap Peas): These add texture, color, and nutrients.
Substitutions and Alternatives
- Light Coconut Milk: For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk instead of coconut cream.
- Thai Basil: If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil or cilantro can be used as a garnish.
- Green Curry Paste: For a different flavor profile, substitute red curry paste with green curry paste.
- Vegetable Stock: If you’re out of vegetable stock, a cup of broth made from bouillon cubes works just as well.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Snow Peas or Spring Onions: These add a fresh crunch to the dish.
- Tofu or Tempeh: For added protein, consider adding tofu or tempeh.
- Red Chillies: For an extra kick, add sliced red chillies.
- Lime Wedge: add a fresh squeeze of lime on top for some extra brightness.
Detailed Breakdown of Ingredients
Arborio Rice
Arborio rice is the key to a creamy risotto. Its high starch content is what gives risotto its signature texture. When cooked slowly with broth, it releases starch, creating a rich, velvety consistency.
Red Thai Curry Paste
This paste is made from red chillies, garlic, lemongrass, and other spices. It’s what gives the dish its bold, spicy flavor. Be sure to adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance, but don’t skimp out too much since this paste adds lots of flavor to the dish!
Coconut Cream vs. Light Coconut Milk
Coconut cream is richer and adds more body to the risotto, while light coconut milk provides a lighter option. Both work well, depending on your preference.
Shallots, Garlic, and Fresh Ginger
These aromatics are sautéed at the beginning of the cooking process, creating a flavorful base for the risotto. Fresh ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy note that complements the curry paste.
Thai Basil and Fresh Herbs
Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavor that pairs perfectly with Thai curry. Fresh herbs like cilantro, fresh basil, and even spring onion can also be used for a different but equally delicious result.
Vegetable Stock and Broth Options
Vegetable stock is the traditional choice, but you can also use a cup of broth made from bouillon cubes or even homemade vegetable stock for added depth of flavor. However, if you are not vegan you can use chicken broth instead.
Fresh Vegetables
Adding fresh vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and snap peas not only adds color and texture but also makes the dish more nutritious. These vegetables retain their crunch even after being cooked in the creamy risotto.
Helpful Tools for Making Red Thai Curry Risotto
- Lime Squeezer (Optional): For easily juicing the lime.
- Large Pot: Essential for cooking both the broth and the risotto.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For dicing shallots, garlic, and ginger.
- Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of broth and other ingredients.
- Stirring Spoon: A must for stirring the rice and preventing it from sticking to the pot.
How to Make This Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto
Making this vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto is a straightforward process that requires a bit of patience and attention. Follow these steps to make this delicious dish:
- How to Make Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto
- Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Prepare the Red Thai Curry Broth: Combine water, red Thai curry paste, soy sauce, and sugar in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then cover and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium-large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced shallots and sauté until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in minced garlic, ginger, and red chillies (if using). Cook until fragrant.
- Toast the Arborio Rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
- Deglaze with Lime Juice: Pour in the lime juice and stir until absorbed.
- Add the Broth Gradually: Start adding the hot curry broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed. This process takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Check the Rice: The risotto should be creamy with the rice al dente. Adjust with more broth if needed.
- Finish with Coconut Cream: Remove from heat and stir in coconut cream. Garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Enhancing the Flavor: Toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances the nutty flavor and improves the texture.
- Adjusting the Spiciness: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of curry paste and red chillies.
- Perfect Creamy Texture: Stirring constantly is key to achieving that perfect creamy risotto texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Ideal Pairings: Serve your risotto with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnishing Ideas: Top with additional Thai basil, red chillies, or a drizzle of coconut cream for added flair.
Possible Variations
Green Curry Paste Version
Substitute the red curry paste with green curry paste for a fresh, vibrant twist on this dish.
Adding Protein: Tofu, Tempeh, or Chickpeas
Incorporate plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas to make the dish heartier.
Using Different Vegetables
Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to add variety and make use of what’s in season.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas or want to impress your guests, Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto is versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors make it a standout dish that’s sure to become a favorite thing in your recipe rotation.
Health Benefits of Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Coconut milk provides healthy fats, Thai basil is rich in antioxidants, and the variety of vegetables add vitamins and minerals. Plus, this vegan dish is cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fat compared to traditional risotto made with butter and cheese.
FAQ: Red Thai Curry Risotto
Arborio rice is commonly used for risotto because of its high starch content, which creates a creamy texture.
Most Thai red curry paste brands are vegan, but it’s important to check the label for any animal-derived ingredients.
Add more Thai red chili or use a spicier variety. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
While risotto is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the creaminess.
Red Thai Curry Risotto
Ingredients
Red Thai Curry Broth
- 5 cups water
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3-4 tbsp Thai red curry paste
- 1 tsp organic sugar
Risotto
- 1 ½ cups arborio rice
- 2 shallots, finely diced
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp ginger, minced
- ½ lime juiced
- 1 Thai chili, thinly sliced (optional, Thai chilis are quite spicy)
Garnishes
- chopped cilantro
- coconut cream
- thinly sliced red Thai chili (optional)
- lime wedge
Instructions
- Make the broth by adding water, Thai red curry paste, soy sauce, and sugar to pot and bring to a boil. Cover and set aside.
- Using another medium-large pot, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add the shallot, and stir frequently until it is translucent.
- Add the garlic, red chili, and ginger stir, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the rice, stir and toast for 1-2 minutes, until aromatic. Then, add the lime juice and stir until absorbed.
- Add 1 cup of the hot stock and stir to combine. Stir frequently, until the stock is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Continue adding broth 1/2 cup at a time, and stirring constantly until it's absorbed. This will take about 15-20 minutes for the rice to fully cook. There may be some leftover broth.
- When the rice is al dente, remove from heat and top with coconut cream, a lime wedge, and fresh cilantro. Serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion
Vegan Red Thai Curry Risotto is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings together the best of Italian and Thai cuisine. With its vibrant flavors and rich texture, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So, why not give it a try? You might just discover your new favorite dish!
What a delightful fusion dish! Nice and spicy, I used 2 Thai chillies and was very pleased.
Thank you so much, it is a great blend of flavours and you gotta be carful with those spicy chilis
I’m not vegan, but this recipe has made me seriously consider it. The taste and presentation are restaurant-quality, and it’s a wonderful way to explore new flavors. It’s safe to say I’m a fan!
Hi Harper so happy you loved the recipe!! And thanks so much for the nice feedback.
This was amazing such a nice blend of flavours!
Thank you so much Laura!
This red Thai chili risotto was SO GOOD!!!
Thanks so much Casey!