This ground turkey curry is a quick and healthy meal packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family. With its creamy coconut base and aromatic spices, this dish stands out as a comforting favorite.
Table of Contents

Ground Turkey Curry Recipe Overview
Why Choose Ground Turkey for Curry?
Ground turkey is a lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it ideal for curry. It keeps the dish light yet satisfying. Plus, it cooks quickly, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Benefits of Using Coconut Milk
Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture to your curry, enhancing its overall flavor. It balances the spices and gives the dish a unique tropical twist. This makes it comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy.
Ingredients for Ground Turkey Curry
Essential Ingredients
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 shallots thinly sliced, 4 cloves of garlic minced, and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger. You’ll also require 1 1/2 tablespoons of mild curry powder, divided, along with 2 teaspoons of coarse kosher salt, divided. Don’t forget 1 bell pepper thinly sliced, 1 pound of ground turkey, and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of full-fat coconut milk. You’ll also need 1 tablespoon of tamari, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or tapioca starch, 1 cup of chopped zucchini, 2 cups of baby spinach, juice from one lime, and red pepper flakes and cilantro for garnish. Finally, serve it atop cooked white jasmine rice.

Optional Ingredients and Variations
You can customize this curry by adding different vegetables, like carrots or peas, based on what’s in season. Also, feel free to adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot curry powder. Experimenting with ingredients can make this dish uniquely yours!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Base
First, heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become translucent. Then, incorporate the garlic, ginger, 1/2 tablespoon of curry powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing well. Afterward, add the bell pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Cooking the Ground Turkey
Next, move the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains, stirring occasionally. Stir in the remaining curry powder and salt to enhance the flavor.
Adding Coconut Milk and Vegetables
Pour in the coconut milk and tamari. Take a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid, mix it with the starch, and return it to the pan to thicken the sauce. Add the zucchini and spinach, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pan from heat and stir in the lime juice. Serve your delicious curry over warm jasmine rice, garnishing with red pepper flakes and cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
Tips for Perfecting Your Curry
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you prefer a milder taste, choose a mild curry powder and reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you love heat, feel free to experiment with hotter spices.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers improve in flavor as the spices meld together, making this dish perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Customizing with Seasonal Vegetables
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on availability or preference. Seasonal ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional variety to your meal.
FAQs
What are the key ingredients for making ground turkey curry?
The key ingredients include ground turkey, coconut milk, curry powder, shallots, garlic, ginger, and your choice of vegetables.
How do I cook ground turkey for curry to keep it moist?
Cook ground turkey until no pink remains, but be careful not to overcook it. Incorporating coconut milk also helps retain moisture.
Can I use ground turkey in traditional curry recipes?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great alternative to other meats in traditional curry recipes, offering a lighter option.
What are some tips for enhancing the flavor of ground turkey curry?
Use fresh spices, adjust the salt and heat levels, and allow the curry to simmer to meld the flavors.
How long does ground turkey curry need to simmer for best results?
Simmer the curry for about 10 minutes after adding the vegetables, allowing the flavors to develop.
Related Recipes to try
- Ground Turkey Tacos
- Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
- Ground Turkey Stir Fry
- Ground Turkey Rice Bowl
- Turkey Meatballs
Conclusion
This ground turkey curry is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy meal. Explore more of our recipes and inspirations on our Pinterest page to keep your cooking adventures exciting.

Delicious Ground Turkey Curry Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 ½ tablespoons mild curry powder, divided
- 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt, divided
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tamari
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or tapioca starch
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Juice of one lime
- Red pepper flakes and cilantro for garnish
- Cooked white jasmine rice
Instructions
- Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add shallots and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become translucent. Incorporate garlic, ginger, 1/2 tablespoon of curry powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing well. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Move the vegetables to one side of the pan and add ground turkey. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains. Stir in the remaining curry powder and salt.
- Pour in the coconut milk and tamari. Take a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid, mix it with the starch, and return it to the pan to thicken the sauce.
- Add zucchini and spinach, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice.
- Serve over warm rice, garnished with red pepper flakes and cilantro.
Notes
– Light coconut milk can be used, but regular coconut milk is recommended for better richness.
– Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot curry powder.