Name: Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Fusion / Vegan
Ingredients: 2 large garlic cloves, crushed; 1 onion, roughly diced; 1 juice lime; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp cayenne pepper; Pinch chilli flakes; 1 veg stock cube/pot; 2 tbsp oil; 400g can of full fat coconut milk; 4 tbsp peanut butter (crunchy or smooth); 2 tbsp tomato puree; 2 x 400g tins of chickpeas, drained

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and a little adventurous, then this Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is just the ticket. It’s one of those flavors that sneak up on you — rich, creamy, with just the right amount of kick from the spices and a subtle nuttiness that makes it truly memorable. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you can whip it up on a busy weeknight but still impress yourself with the complexity of flavors.

I first stumbled onto this recipe when I needed something hearty and quick after a long day, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. What I love most about this Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is not just how satisfying it is, but how versatile it can be depending on whatever you’ve got in your pantry. Trust me: once you get this one in your rotation, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients blend harmoniously to create a thick, flavorful curry that’s both tangy and creamy. I always recommend using good-quality peanut butter and fresh garlic to really make those flavors pop!

Oil: I usually go with vegetable or sunflower oil because it has a neutral flavor and handles the sautéing well.
Garlic cloves: Fresh crushed garlic gives the curry that aromatic foundation; avoid pre-minced garlic for the best flavor.
Onion: Roughly diced is perfect here — it softens and adds subtle sweetness.
Paprika: Adds warmth and a mild smokiness; you can use smoked paprika if you want a deeper flavor.
Ground coriander: Just a dash brings a gentle citrus undertone that balances the richness.
Cayenne pepper: The heat here is key — but adjust to your liking!
Chilli flakes: For an extra kick, especially if you’re a spice lover like me.
Full fat coconut milk: This is what makes the curry beautifully creamy — don’t swap for light milk unless you want a very different result.
Peanut butter (crunchy or smooth): This is your star ingredient; I like crunchy because you get little bursts of texture, but smooth works just as well.
Tomato puree: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
Chickpeas: Canned works fine and is super convenient; make sure to drain and rinse them well.
Vegetable stock cube/pot: Enhances the savory flavors; I prefer organic varieties with minimal additives.
Lime juice: The fresh lime juice at the end is what brightens everything up – don’t skip it!

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you fancy or what’s in your fridge. Play around with spice levels or swap chickpeas for other proteins to make it your own.

With chicken or tofu: I sometimes add diced chicken breast or firm tofu cubes to bulk it up — just cook them first before adding to the sauce.
Veggie-packed: Throw in some chopped spinach, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Less heat: If spicy isn’t your thing, reduce or omit the cayenne and chili flakes. I find lime juice balances mild versions nicely.
Low-fat option: Use light coconut milk and reduce peanut butter slightly, but know the dish won’t be as rich.

How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté your aromatics

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the crushed garlic and diced onion, stirring often until they soften and get fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step really builds the flavor base, so don’t rush it or burn the garlic!

Step 2: Add the spices

Next, sprinkle in the paprika, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds so the spices bloom and release their essential oils. You’ll notice the kitchen fill up with a warm, inviting aroma already.

Step 3: Create your sauce

Pour in the coconut milk, then stir in the peanut butter and tomato puree. Keep the heat gentle to medium so the peanut butter melts smoothly and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir well so everything combines into a luscious, creamy texture.

Step 4: Add chickpeas and stock

Drain and rinse your chickpeas, then add them to the pan along with the crumbled vegetable stock cube or pot. Stir to mix everything, and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes to marry all the flavors and get those chickpeas warm and tender.

Step 5: Finish with a splash of lime

Right before serving, squeeze the juice of a lime over the curry and give it one last stir. This brightens all the richness and adds a fresh, zesty punch that you’ll love. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — a little salt or more lime can make a big difference!

How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe

The dish shows a white bowl filled with two main layers: on the left side, there is a serving of light brown cooked rice with visible grain texture, and on the right side, there is a thick orange-yellow chickpea curry with whole chickpeas in a creamy sauce, garnished with small green cilantro leaves scattered across the top. A bright green lime half sits on the rice near the curry, adding a fresh pop of color. A vintage silver spoon rests on the edge of the bowl, partly on the rice. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh chopped coriander (cilantro) on top because it cuts through the richness beautifully and adds a vibrant green pop. Sometimes I also add toasted peanuts for extra crunch, especially if I used smooth peanut butter in the curry itself.

Side Dishes

Serving this curry over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice is my go-to — it soaks up that peanutty sauce perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, naan bread or simple steamed greens on the side really round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this curry in individual coconut shell bowls for a fun, tropical vibe. Another time, I made it the centerpiece of a colorful grain bowl, adding roasted sweet potatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The curry thickens as it sits, so I often add a splash of coconut milk or water when reheating to loosen it back up to that lovely creamy texture.

Freezing

This peanut butter curry freezes really well in portion-sized containers. Just cool it completely before freezing, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. I’ve found it keeps its flavor and texture surprisingly well.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a little extra coconut milk or water helps regain that perfect consistency without overcooking the chickpeas.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan when you use vegetable oil and vegetable stock. It’s a fantastic plant-based option that’s rich in protein thanks to the chickpeas and peanut butter.
What kind of peanut butter works best?

I’ve found that crunchy peanut butter adds lovely texture contrasts, but smooth peanut butter melts seamlessly into the sauce for a silkier finish. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand!
Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?

Yes, you can swap chickpeas with cannellini beans, black beans, or even lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times and textures will vary slightly.
How spicy is this curry?

The heat is moderate with the cayenne and chili flakes, but you can easily adjust the spice level according to your tolerance by reducing or increasing those amounts.
What can I serve with this Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe?

It’s great over rice or with warm naan bread. For a lighter meal, serve with steamed veggies or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the rich sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Peanut Butter Curry Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome all at once. It’s perfect whether you’re feeding yourself after a busy day or sharing with friends who appreciate bold, comforting flavors. Give it a try—you’ll likely find it becomes a favorite quick-fix dinner that always hits the spot!