Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors yet surprisingly simple to make, you’re in for a treat with this Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice. This dish combines the creamy richness of a spiced coconut curry loaded with tender sweet potatoes alongside fragrant basil-infused jasmine rice, creating the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something wholesome and colorful, this recipe is a delightful, heartwarming choice that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy coconut curry paired with soft sweet potatoes and aromatic rice offers a fulfilling and cozy experience.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when you still want a homemade meal.
• Vibrant Flavors: A lively mix of spices, fresh basil, and sweet potato sweetness keeps your taste buds dancing.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: This curry is hearty and plant-based, satisfying both strict vegans and anyone seeking a meatless option.
• Nutritious & Balanced: Provides complex carbs, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice for any diet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice uses simple yet essential ingredients you can find easily, each bringing its own unique character to the dish. From the creamy coconut milk to the fragrant basil, every component has a role in creating this harmonious flavor profile.

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and creamy texture after cooking.
• Coconut Milk: For a rich and silky curry base that brings everything together with a tropical creaminess.
• Curry Powder: A blend of warm spices like turmeric and cumin, infusing the curry with authentic flavor and color.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic note to the jasmine rice, elevating its usual fragrance and complementing the curry perfectly.
• Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and floral, it balances the richness of the curry and pairs beautifully with basil.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that create a flavorful foundation for the curry sauce.
• Vegetable Broth: Enhances depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
• Chili Flakes (Optional): Adds a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat in your curry.

Variations for Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable for everyone’s taste or dietary needs.

• Add Protein: Toss in chickpeas, tofu, or chicken for an extra boost of protein and substance.
• Swap the Sweet Potato: Use butternut squash, pumpkin, or carrots if you want a slightly different texture or flavor.
• Make it Spicier: Increase the chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers for more heat.
• Change the Herb: Try cilantro or mint instead of basil for a different herbal aroma in the jasmine rice.
• Use Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a nutty or gluten-free twist on the side, substitute jasmine rice with these grains.

How to Make Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Basil Jasmine Rice

Rinse one cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Combine the rice with 1.5 cups of water and a handful of fresh basil leaves in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover for around 15 minutes until tender. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside, keeping the basil mixed in for that lovely fragrance.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a splash of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base that will carry the entire curry.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add peeled and cubed sweet potatoes to the pan, stirring for a couple of minutes to lightly coat in the spices. This first sear helps develop the sweetness and gives a slight caramelized depth to the vegetables.

Step 4: Add Spices and Liquids

Sprinkle in your curry powder and chili flakes if using, stirring continuously for a minute to release their aromas. Next, pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let the sweet potatoes cook through until tender—usually about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are soft, taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat, then serve your luscious Sweet Potato Curry alongside the fragrant basil jasmine rice for a meal that is both comforting and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice

• Fresh Spices: Use fresh curry powder or freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Basil: Adding basil to the rice makes a huge difference in aroma and taste, so be generous!
• Consistent Cube Size: Cut your sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the curry at a gentle simmer to avoid curdling the coconut milk.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the curry sit for a few minutes after cooking—this helps flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice

Garnishes

Top your curry with freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and toasted coconut flakes to add an extra boost of freshness, acidity, and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with simple cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, or naan bread for a full and satisfying meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the curry in a colorful bowl with the basil jasmine rice molded into a neat dome beside it. Drizzle a little coconut cream on top and scatter a few fresh basil leaves for a visually stunning plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The curry flavors improve after resting, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Store curry and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the curry gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much. Warm the rice separately for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular white rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, regular white rice works fine, though jasmine rice’s floral aroma complements the curry beautifully and is worth trying.

Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe uses plant-based ingredients and no gluten-containing items, making it suitable for these dietary preferences.

How spicy is this curry?

The spice level is mild by default, but you can easily adjust chili flakes or add fresh chilies to make it as spicy as you like.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, everything can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient meal prep option.

What other herbs work well if I don’t have basil?

Cilantro or mint are excellent alternatives to basil in the jasmine rice and provide a fresh twist to the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Curry with Basil Jasmine Rice is truly a joyful experience—filled with bright, comforting flavors and easy to customize to your liking. It’s a perfect dinner solution that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Give it a go and watch this vibrant dish become one of your favorite weeknight meals to share with family or friends!

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