Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe
A rich and creamy Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe made with coconut milk, curry spices, garlic, and ginger. Use it for chicken, tofu, veggies, noodles, or rice.
Equipment
- A medium saucepan
- A wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A small blender (optional if you want an ultra-smooth sauce)
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon oil coconut, olive, or avocado oil
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
For the Curry Flavor
- 2 tablespoons curry powder mild or medium
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes optional
For the Sauce
- 1 can 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste optional for color and depth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or honey
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lime
Optional Enhancers
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter for creaminess
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce for savory richness
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Instructions
Saute the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. The base of the Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe starts right here.
Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir and let the spices bloom for 30 seconds. This step gives you that deep, warm, curry-shop smell filling your kitchen.
Stir in the Tomato Paste
- If you’re using tomato paste, mix it in now. It adds richness and a subtle tang, balancing the creaminess.
Add the Coconut Milk and Broth
- Pour in the coconut milk and broth. Stir well to combine everything. At this point, the sauce begins to take on its silky, golden appearance.
Season and Simmer
- Add soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see it thicken slightly and deepen in flavor.
Finish with Lime Juice
- Turn off the heat and squeeze in the lime juice. This brightens the sauce and balances the richness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Optional: Blend for Smoothness
- If you want a super velvety Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe, blend it for 10–15 seconds. I personally love the texture both ways.