Smoky Curry Medley with Freeze-Dried Veggies


Warm, bold, and comforting — this one-skillet dish is a flavor-packed fusion of smoky sausage, tender butternut squash, and vibrant broccoli, all brought to life with golden curry spices and creamy coconut milk. The freeze-dried ingredients rehydrate beautifully, making prep a breeze while preserving peak-season flavor. It’s rich, colorful, and satisfying, with a gentle spice that wraps each bite in comfort. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or with warm flatbread for a pantry-to-table meal that feels like a culinary escape — no chopping required!

Why This Works:

  • Freeze-dried convenience: No chopping, long shelf-life, easy rehydration.
  • New flavor paths: Indian curry or southwest spice bring warmth and depth.
  • Boosted nutrition: Coconut milk adds healthy fats and creaminess.
  • Versatile: Great for meal prep or pantry-rustle dinners.

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

  • 2 Tbsp coconut oil (or olive oil)
  • 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins
  • 2 cups freeze-dried butternut squash
  • 2 cups freeze-dried broccoli florets
  • ½ cup freeze-dried diced onion
  • 1 Tbsp mild curry powder
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp grated freeze-dried garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or water)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Steps

  1. Rehydrate veggie medley
    In a small bowl, cover freeze-dried squash, broccoli, and onion with 1 cup warm water. Let sit 5–7 minutes, then drain.
  2. Brown the sausage
    Heat oil in a large skillet. Add sausage slices and cook until golden, about 4–5 min per side. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Spice and sauté
    Add curry powder, turmeric, garlic, and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Stir in rehydrated veggies and lightly toast for 2 minutes.
  4. Simmer
    Return sausage to pan. Pour in coconut milk, stir, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until sauce thickens (~5 min).
  5. Garnish & serve
    Serve with cilantro and lime. Complement with rice, quinoa, or flatbread.

Southwest-Inspired Spice Variation

  • Swap curry + turmeric with:
    • 1 Tbsp chili powder
    • ½ tsp cumin
    • Pinch of smoked paprika
  • After sauté, stir in ¼ cup freeze-dried corn and ¼ cup freeze-dried black beans (rehydrated).
  • Finish with a squeeze of lime and chopped cilantro.

Leave a comment

Hello! My name is Karen and I am a super creative foodie and home chef who delights in making something from nothing! A true believer in a well stocked pantry to help families navigate through tough times. Let’s get creative with what we have and take the pantry stash from meh to marvelous!