Tomato And Coconut Milk Sauce
Tomato and coconut milk sauce is a creamy, flavorful blend of ripe tomatoes and rich coconut milk. The sauce combines the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the smooth, mild richness of coconut milk, often seasoned with garlic, onions, ginger, and spices like curry or turmeric. This versatile sauce can be used in curries, pasta dishes, or as a base for soups, adding depth and a tropical flair to any meal.
Equipment
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Grater (for ginger)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger optional, but recommended for extra depth
- 1 teaspoon curry powder mild or hot based on preference
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili adjust to heat level desired
- 1 can 400g / 14 oz diced tomatoes, or 4 ripe fresh tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 can 400ml / 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add the curry powder and chili flakes, stirring constantly to toast the spices for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, along with any juices. Let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should become rich and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm. This sauce pairs beautifully with rice, tofu, vegetables, or grilled meats.
Notes
❖ Customizing the Sauce: If you prefer a spicier sauce, feel free to add a chopped chili or some red pepper flakes when adding the spices. You can also make it vegan by ensuring you use a plant-based coconut milk and pairing it with a variety of vegetables.
❖ Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the consistency of the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add a little water or vegetable broth. For a thicker, creamier texture, let it simmer a bit longer.
Nutrition Facts Tomato And Coconut Milk Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 2g |