The Brunch Zone

Tag: dinner

Delicious Chicken Curry Recipe with Vegan Options
Whether you’re craving a rich, aromatic chicken curry or seeking a plant-based alternative, this chicken curry recipe will hit the spot! It’s packed with veggies and has creamy sauce, and I’ve included vegan variations to cater to everyone. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Chicken Curry:
- For the Curry Base:
  - 500g chicken breast
  - 400 ml coconut milk ( or cream to a richer version)
  - lots of vegetables: broccoli, onion, carrot, pepper, peas
  - 1 tbsp of ginger, grated
  - 1 tbsp curry
  - 1 tbsp coriander
  - ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
  - salt, pepper
  - coconut oil / olive oil
Instructions for Chicken Curry:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the chicken into small chunks, then the veggies into small pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken (or Vegan Alternative): Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices. Season with the spices: salt, pepper, curry powder, chili and coriander, then cook for 6-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned on all sides. If you’re making the vegan version, add your protein choice (tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh) and stir gently.
3. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth to the pan.
4. Add the chopped vegetables to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Once the curry is simmering, cover the pan and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken (or tofu) to cook through. If using tofu or chickpeas, a shorter cooking time of 10-15 minutes will suffice.
6. Taste check: add more the spice if needed: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and more curry powder or chili. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
7. Garnish & Serve: Remove the curry from the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Vegan Variations:

If you’re opting for a vegan version of this curry, the good news is that there are many ways to replace chicken while keeping all the flavor! Here are some great alternatives:
1. Tofu: Firm tofu works best in this recipe. Press the tofu to remove excess water, cut it into cubes, and either sauté it in a bit of oil until crispy or add it directly to the curry. It will soak up all the flavors and become beautifully soft in the curry.
2. Chickpeas: A can of drained and rinsed chickpeas can be added in place of chicken. They add texture and a great protein punch to the curry. Let them simmer in the sauce for a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Tempeh: Tempeh is another wonderful protein option that works great in curry.
Serving Suggestions:

This curry pairs wonderfully with:
- Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up curry sauce.
This chicken curry recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on dietary preferences. Whether you’re a meat eater or vegan, there’s a version for everyone, and the flavors are nothing short of comforting. Serve it up for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or when you’re hosting guests — it’s sure to impress!

Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this curry, and feel free to experiment with different proteins and spices to make it your own.
February 10, 2025

chicken, curry, dinner, easy recipe, food, one pot, recipe, Recipes, veggies
Chicken meatballs with parmesan and carrot salad: a perfect comfort food
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, packed with protein and flavors, and perfect for any occasion, these meatballs are here to help you. They’re juicy, tender, and filled with cheesy goodness, making them ideal for serving with salad, in a sandwich, or as a standalone appetizer.

And when it comes to fresh, simple, and nutritious meals, nothing beats a colorful salad. This carrot and chickpeas salad is quick to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and brimming with wholesome ingredients. And it makes a perfect garnish for the meatballs!

Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Meatballs
- Healthier Protein: Made with lean ground chicken (or turkey) to cover your protein intake.
- Cheesy Perfection: Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor that makes these meatballs irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve with marinara sauce, over pasta, or enjoy as a snack.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this recipe in no time.
Ingredients (Makes About 20 Meatballs)

For the Meatballs:
- 450g ground chicken ( – or turkey)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small red onion
- 1 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground paprika
- olive oil (for cooking)
For the salad:
- 2 cups shredded carrots (3-4 medium-sized carrots)
- 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cumin
Step-by-Step Instructions

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Make the meatballs
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, and seasoning: salt, pepper and paprika.
2. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until just combined.
3. Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used (you should have about 20 meatballs).
4. Preheat your oven to 200°C.
5. Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Lightly spray with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make the salad
1. Start by shredding your carrots and finely chopping the parsley.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, chickpeas, and fresh parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Veggies: Try tossing in cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for variety.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or harissa for a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts

These Chicken meatballs with parmesan are bound to become a favorite. They’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests. Whether you’re pairing them with salad or serving them as a party appetizer, these meatballs deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

Try them today, and let us know how you served yours! Don’t forget to top them with a little extra Parmesan and parsley —because you can never have too much cheese.

Enjoy cooking!
January 20, 2025

carrot, chicken, chickpeas, dinner, food, recipe, Recipes, salad
Cozy Pumpkin Soup Recipe for Chilly Days
Let’s talk about pumpkin soup—a bowl of creamy magic that wraps you up like a cozy sweater on those chilly days when your toes are practically begging for fuzzy socks.

Pumpkin soup isn’t just food; it’s mood. It’s that happy hug you didn’t know you needed after braving the crisp autumn air. It’s the culinary equivalent of sinking into the couch while the reading your current favorite book – mine is The Instrumentalist from Harriet Constable. Or that nice lunch break during the day, when you eat something comforting and energizing, and then you can go back to work happier (happened to me).

This recipe is silky, rich, and spiced just right. The blend of roasted pumpkin and other vegetables, a touch of coconut cream, and just enough spices to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside is what dreams are made of. And if you want to take it to the next level, pair it with crusty bread, feta or peanuts for dunking.

So, grab a spoon, find a cozy corner, and let pumpkin soup turn your chilly day into a happy, toasty memory. Who knew a humble bowl of soup could be this day-changing?

ROASTER PUMPKIN, PEPPER & TOMATO

Ingredients

The veggies I’ve used for this recipe can be replaced with any vegetable you find in your pantry. I made this soup with lots of variations, but this combination is the favorite one so far:
- 500 g pumpkin
- 200 g pepper
- 200 g tomato
- 300 ml vegetable broth
- 1 red onion
- 1 garlic
- 200 ml cream or 1 canned coconut cream
- salt, pepper, basil, rosemary, turmeric
- olive oil
Time to make the soup: 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash the vegetables and cut them into chunks. Leave the peeled garlic cloves whole.
- Toss the vegetables, olive oil, turmeric, rosemary, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Mix well and spread them out evenly in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven at 200°C for 25 – 30 minutes.
- Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven, transfer them to a blender along with the vegetable broth and coconut cream, and mix them. Transfer the mixture into a large pot and bring it to a boil.
- Serve until hot and cozy.
Serving suggestions:

Pumpkin soup is already a superstar on its own, but pairing it with the right toppings can take it to the next level. Here are some ideas to make your meal extra cozy and satisfying:
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette, sourdough slice, or even garlic bread is perfect for dunking into the creamy soup.
- Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds, peanuts or croutons on top for an added crunch.
- Cream: Drizzle some heavy cream or coconut milk for that fancy restaurant vibe.
- Cheese, Please: A little grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top adds richness of flavor.
Dietary Accommodations

One of the best things about creamy pumpkin soup is how easy it is to adapt for different dietary needs without losing that cozy, comforting vibe. Here’s how you can make it work for everyone:
- Vegan-Friendly: Use coconut milk or a creamy oat-based alternative instead. The coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spices.
- Gluten-Free: Good news—most pumpkin soup recipes are naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your stock or broth to ensure it’s labeled gluten-free, as some brands sneak in thickeners containing gluten.
- Low-Dairy or Lactose-Free: Swap out traditional cream for lactose-free options or go with unsweetened almond or coconut milk. They blend smoothly and still deliver that creamy texture.
- Low-Sodium: Use a homemade or low-sodium broth, and adjust salt to taste. The spices will still shine through and keep it flavorful!
No matter how you tweak it, this soup stays delicious, inclusive, and full of cozy fall goodness. Everyone deserves a happy bowl of pumpkin love! 🧡
December 2, 2024

dinner, food, pumpkin, recipe, Recipes, soup, vegan, vegetarian, veggies