Are you looking for a flavorful meal that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the warmth of curry spices? Look no further! Quinoa, when cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, can elevate any dish to new heights. And what better way to do so than with the bold flavors of curry? In this article, we’ll explore 20 spicy curried quinoa recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride.
From hearty bowls to vibrant salads, these recipes showcase the versatility of quinoa and the magic of curry. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, there’s something here for everyone. So let’s dive into the world of spicy curried quinoa and discover the endless possibilities!
Curried Quinoa with Chickpeas and Spinach
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the warmth of curry spices, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the freshness of spinach. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and cook until heated through.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in chickpea mixture.
6. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curried Quinoa with Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the warm spices of Indian cuisine with the comfort of roasted sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a fluffy coconut-infused quinoa dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the spice mixture, roasted sweet potatoes, and coconut milk. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Thai Red Curry Quinoa Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this hearty quinoa bowl, infused with the spicy and aromatic notes of red curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in red curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Serve quinoa topped with the red curry mixture.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Curried Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of India with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious vegetarian dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, then top with chickpeas and cilantro (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Golden Turmeric Curried Quinoa
Add a burst of sunshine to your meals with this flavorful and nutritious quinoa dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric and the comfort of curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or broth to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the curry mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Lentil Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices and comforting quinoa and lentils. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, and lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the stew over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Curried Quinoa with Mango Chutney
This flavorful and aromatic dish combines the warmth of curried quinoa with the sweetness of mango chutney, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup mango chutney
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, mango chutney, and salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the warmth of Indian-inspired spices and the sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Toss bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, curry powder, and chopped cilantro.
5. Add roasted vegetables to the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Curried Quinoa
Elevate your meal with this flavorful quinoa dish that combines the warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the comfort of curried spices. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), seeded and finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the Jamaican jerk seasoning and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the quinoa and water or broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
7. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Cashews and Raisins
This flavorful side dish is a perfect blend of Indian spices, nutty cashews, and sweet raisins, all wrapped up in a nutritious quinoa bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While quinoa cooks, mix curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
4. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the spice mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. In a small skillet, toast cashews over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Stir in raisins and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve warm quinoa topped with toasted cashews and raisins.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of quinoa with the spicy kick of curry, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir into the skillet mixture.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning quinoa mixture into shells. Add desired toppings.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Curried Quinoa with Feta
This hearty quinoa dish combines the warm spices of curry powder with the bright, citrusy flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Crumbly feta cheese adds a tangy kick that ties everything together.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in curry powder and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with fork; add to skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add quinoa, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Curried Quinoa Soup with Coconut Milk!
Curried Quinoa and Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creamy texture of cauliflower rice, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic curry spice blend. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 head of cauliflower, pulsed into “rice”
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower “rice” and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the curry cauliflower mixture.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Grilled Chicken and Yogurt Sauce
This flavorful recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the spicy kick of curry, paired with juicy grilled chicken and a refreshing yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, mix yogurt and lemon juice.
4. Combine cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, and yogurt sauce in a serving dish. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa Breakfast Bowl with Eggs
Start your day off right with this flavorful and nutritious breakfast bowl, packed with protein, fiber, and a hint of warm spice. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the richness of curried eggs and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Crack in the eggs and stir to scramble. Add curry powder and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve the curried eggs over cooked quinoa and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Shrimp and Pineapple
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the warmth of curry with the sweetness of pineapple, all wrapped up in a nutty quinoa package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add pineapple chunks; cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the curried shrimp mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Sweet Corn Fritters
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful fritters packed with protein-rich quinoa, sweet corn, and a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine quinoa, corn kernels, flour, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Beat the egg in a separate bowl, then add it to the quinoa mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 fritters.
5. Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Roasted Eggplant and Tahini
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa, the creamy richness of tahini, and the sweetness of roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together cooked quinoa and tahini.
5. Serve roasted eggplant over the curried quinoa mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines nutty quinoa with tender chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of warm curry spice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry powder and chickpeas to the pan; stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked quinoa with the chickpea mixture and bell pepper in a bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 mouth-watering curried quinoa recipes! From hearty stews and salads to breakfast bowls and international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Quinoa lovers will rejoice at the creative combinations of flavors and textures, from sweet potatoes and mango chutney to grilled chicken and yogurt sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl or a quick weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get curried, and take your taste buds on a flavorful adventure!
