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
- Knife (for chopping tomatoes, onion, and garlic)
- Cutting board
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Zester or grater for the lemon zest
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer (for fresh lemon juice)
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes finely chopped
- 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk (full-fat preferred for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Finely chop the tomatoes and onion. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Zest the lemon and set the zest aside. Squeeze out 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice.
- In a medium saucepan or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the spices bloom in the oil for about 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and begin to break down, releasing their juices.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the sauce with salt to taste. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly and is well-seasoned, remove from heat. Serve as a sauce for curries, rice, or as a dipping sauce with your favorite bread or crackers.
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.