Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
Why Make This Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry is the perfect dish for anyone looking to warm up on a chilly day. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with the comforting aroma of spices and simmered vegetables. The combination of creamy coconut milk and tender butternut squash creates a rich, hearty dish that satisfies without overwhelming. Plus, the chickpeas add a boost of protein, making it a complete meal. Whether you’re trying to introduce more vegetarian meals into your diet or just need a meal that practically cooks itself, this curry will quickly become a family favorite.
How to Make Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a crockpot, combine the peeled and cubed butternut squash, drained chickpeas, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This colorful mix not only looks appealing but also packs a punch of flavor.
Step 2: Mixing
Next, add the curry powder, cumin, salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to your crockpot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the butternut squash and chickpeas are coated in the spices and liquid.
Step 3: Cooking
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the squash to become tender and creamy. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, give the curry a good stir before serving. The texture should be velvety, and the inviting aroma will have everyone ready to dig in. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
Serve this butternut squash curry warm on its own, or pair it with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also goes well with naan bread for a cozy, satisfying meal. For a more substantial dinner, add a side salad to balance the flavors and textures.
How to Store Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
To store leftovers, let the curry cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
- For added heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper.
- If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk can be substituted, though the texture may be a little different.
- Make sure to cut the butternut squash into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- You can easily double this recipe if you’re cooking for a crowd. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.
Delicious Variations
- Add Other Veggies: Include other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and bulk up the dish.
- Protein Boost: Add tofu or tempeh for an extra protein punch.
- Curry Spice Mix: Experiment with different curry powders, such as Thai red curry for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Instead of cilantro, try garnishing with fresh mint or basil for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I cook this on the stove? Yes! You can make this curry on the stovetop. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger first, then add the butternut squash, chickpeas, and remaining ingredients. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients used are gluten-free, making this curry a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes! This recipe is completely vegan as it consists only of plant-based ingredients.
- What can I serve with this curry? It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan.
- Can I scale this recipe? Yes! You can easily double or triple the ingredients, just make sure your crockpot can handle the extra volume.
Conclusion
Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day you crave comfort food. Its rich and creamy texture combined with fragrant spices makes it a delight for the senses. With its ease of preparation and ability to please a crowd, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this delightful curry! Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Butternut Squash Curry
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A warm and creamy butternut squash curry made in a crockpot, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the peeled and cubed butternut squash, drained chickpeas, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add the curry powder, cumin, salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to your crockpot. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and set the crockpot to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, stir the curry and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
To add heat, toss in red pepper flakes. Substitute coconut milk with unsweetened almond milk if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
