Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry

Name: Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli); 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry! It’s a vibrant and colorful dish that not only looks amazing but also leaves your taste buds dancing. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy coconut milk creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. I often serve it with rice or naan, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this curry is always a hit!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:55:07.948Z

This Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry has become one of my go-to recipes on busy weeknights. The secret to its flavor lies in using fresh and seasonal vegetables, which I often change based on what I have at home. Adding a hint of allspice and thyme gives it the essence of Jamaica, and I just can’t get enough!

The process of simmering vegetables in coconut milk not only makes them tender but also infuses them with rich flavors. I like to let it simmer a bit longer so the spices can meld beautifully. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices bring an authentic Jamaican flair
Creamy coconut milk envelops every bite in luxury
Loaded with colorful vegetables for a nutrient boost

      

Balancing Flavors

The key to a successful Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry lies in the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the coconut milk harmonizes beautifully with the aromatic spices, creating a pleasing contrast. I recommend using fresh ginger and garlic as they provide a pungent kick that elevates the dish. Cook the aromatics until they release their fragrances, which should take about 2-3 minutes, as this step is essential for developing depth in flavor.

When adding spices, make sure to toast them lightly in the pot, which can enhance their flavor. The high heat will coax out the essential oils in the curry powder, allspice, and thyme. This process should only take about a minute, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once they become fragrant, you'll know you're ready to add the vegetables.

Vegetable Variations

While the recipe lists mixed vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli, feel free to customize this curry based on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even frozen peas can make great additions. Just remember that firmer vegetables will need more time to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly. If you choose softer veggies like zucchini, you can add them halfway through the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

For a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or tofu. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them before adding them during the vegetable incorporation step. Tofu should be cubed and sautéed separately until golden before being added to the curry for extra texture.

Ingredients

Gather your fresh ingredients to create this delightful curry.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli)
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your flavorful curry.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onions are translucent.

Add Spices

Stir in the curry powder, allspice, and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add your mixed vegetables and stir to coat them in the spice mixture.

Simmer with Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Coconut Vegetable Curry!

Pro Tips

For added heat, consider adding chopped chili peppers while sautéing the aromatics.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This curry is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to freeze the curry, allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. This will keep in the freezer for about three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

For a traditional experience, serve this curry over fluffy rice, which will soak up all the delicious sauce. You can use basmati or jasmine rice for a fragrant touch. If you're in the mood for something different, naan or roti is also a wonderful choice, providing a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy curry.

Consider complementing your meal with a simple side salad of fresh greens and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette. The acidity will cut through the richness of the curry perfectly, adding balance to your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add fresh or dried chili peppers to enhance the heat.

→ Is this curry vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is fully vegan and loaded with nutritious ingredients.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, or naan for a complete meal.