Vegan Sweet Potato Curry Spinach

A bowl of creamy Vegan Sweet Potato Curry with Spinach, served over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh cilantro. Save to Pinterest
A bowl of creamy Vegan Sweet Potato Curry with Spinach, served over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh cilantro. | localbiteblog.com

This hearty bowl combines tender sweet potatoes and fresh spinach in a rich coconut-based sauce, infused with aromatic curry spices. The natural sweetness of potatoes balances beautifully with the creamy coconut milk and warming spices, creating a satisfying meal that's both nourishing and full of vibrant flavors.

The dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve over steamed basmati rice or alongside warm naan to soak up the fragrant sauce. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of textures and tastes that will appeal to both plant-based enthusiasts and anyone seeking a wholesome, flavorful meal.

It was a dreary Tuesday evening when I first threw sweet potatoes and coconut milk into a pot without a real plan. The house filled with the warm scent of toasted cumin and turmeric, instantly lifting my mood. That accidental mash up turned into the most vibrant, golden stew I had ever made. Now it is the meal I turn to when I need something comforting but healthy.

I served this to my friend who claimed she hated curry, and she went back for seconds without saying a word. Watching the vibrant orange color brighten up the dinner table is always a highlight of my week. It is the kind of meal that makes everyone forget they are eating vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes: They add natural sweetness and hold their shape perfectly during the simmer.
  • 1 can coconut milk: Full fat is best here because it creates that luscious restaurant style texture.
  • 1 yellow onion: Finely chopping it ensures it melts into the sauce and provides a savory base.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a punch of flavor that powder simply cannot match.
  • 2 tbsp curry powder: Use your favorite blend to customize the heat level to your liking.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach: It wilts down quickly at the end to add fresh green color and nutrients.

Instructions

Sauté the onion:
Heat the oil in a large pot and cook the onion until it turns soft and translucent.
Add aromatics:
Stir in the garlic and ginger just until you smell that wonderful fragrance.
Soften vegetables:
Toss in the sweet potatoes and red bell pepper to let them start softening up.
Toast spices:
Sprinkle in the spices and stir constantly for a minute to wake up their flavors.
Simmer base:
Pour in the tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth then give everything a good stir.
Cook potatoes:
Let it bubble gently until the potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
Wilt greens:
Dump in the spinach and stir until it just wilts into the sauce.
Finish season:
Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to make the flavors pop.
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| localbiteblog.com

I realized this recipe was a keeper when I found myself excited about the leftovers the next day. The flavors seem to deepen overnight, making it the perfect packable lunch. It turns a mundane workday meal into something special.

Serving Suggestions

Basmati rice acts as the perfect sponge to soak up every drop of the rich sauce. A warm piece of naan bread is also ideal for scooping up the tender chunks of potato.

Adjusting The Heat

If you enjoy a kick, do not hesitate to add more cayenne or some chopped chili peppers. The sweetness of the potatoes balances beautifully with a higher level of spice.

Storing The Leftovers

This curry stores exceptionally well in the fridge for up to four days.

  • Let the pot cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • You can freeze portions for up to three months for easy future meals.
Vibrant Vegan Sweet Potato Curry with Spinach simmering in a pot, featuring tender orange sweet potatoes and wilted green spinach leaves. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant Vegan Sweet Potato Curry with Spinach simmering in a pot, featuring tender orange sweet potatoes and wilted green spinach leaves. | localbiteblog.com

I hope this curry brings a little warmth and color to your table just as it has to mine. Enjoy every delicious spoonful.

Recipe FAQs

Use full-fat coconut milk instead of light versions for a richer, creamier texture. You can also add a tablespoon of coconut cream or cashew butter toward the end of cooking for extra richness.

Yes, add a can of drained chickpeas or lentils when you pour in the tomatoes. Tofu cubes or pan-fried tempeh also work well as protein additions.

Kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens can replace spinach. Try adding cauliflower, butternut squash, or green beans for extra texture and nutrition.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Yes, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of spinach may change slightly after freezing.

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for milder flavor. For more heat, add fresh jalapeños, serrano peppers, or increase cayenne to 1/2 teaspoon. Always taste before serving.

Vegan Sweet Potato Curry Spinach

Creamy coconut curry with tender sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices. A hearty plant-based meal ready in 45 minutes.

Prep 15m
Cook 30m
Total 45m
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced

Pantry

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil

Spices

  • 2 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Others

  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2
Add Ginger and Garlic: Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3
Incorporate Vegetables: Add sweet potatoes and red bell pepper. Sauté for another 2 minutes.
4
Toast the Spices: Sprinkle in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook, stirring, for 1 minute to toast the spices.
5
Add Liquids: Pour in diced tomatoes with juice, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
6
Simmer the Curry: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
7
Add Spinach: Add chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
8
Season and Serve: Stir in lime juice, adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with rice or naan if desired.
Additional Information

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories 320
Protein 6g
Carbs 44g
Fat 14g

Allergy Information

  • Contains coconut (tree nut allergen)
Nora Jennings

Warm, approachable recipes and meal tips from a fellow home cook—perfect for everyday family meals and food lovers.