Craving a dish that’s loaded with flavor and ready in no time? This chickpea curry is your answer! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests with minimal effort. You’ll love how the spices come together to create a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Quick and Easy Chickpea Curry
This chickpea curry is a delightful blend of tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk. It’s hearty and rich, with a warm spice profile that delivers a comforting taste in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent for about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Chickpeas: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and the rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the Coconut Milk: Add the coconut milk and season with salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Curry: Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot with rice or naan.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
This recipe makes use of simple ingredients, yet the combination creates a rich and hearty dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it with naan, this chickpea curry is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The Appeal of Chickpea Curry
This chickpea curry radiates warmth and comfort, making it a favorite for many. The combination of tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and a hint of creamy coconut creates a delightful experience. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this curry fits the bill perfectly.
Aromatic Spices Take Center Stage
The spice blend used in this dish is what truly elevates it.
Curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder come together to create an aromatic profile that captivates the senses.
Each spice plays a vital role in achieving a balance of flavors, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.
The Heartiness of Chickpeas
Chickpeas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients.
High in protein and fiber, they contribute to a satisfying meal that nourishes the body.
This curry showcases the humble chickpea as a star ingredient, proving that simple can be extraordinary.
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
Serving this curry over fluffy white rice provides a delightful contrast in texture.
The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the curry, making each forkful a harmonious experience.
Pairing it with warm naan adds an inviting element, perfect for scooping up every last bit.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a splash of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
Garnishing is an essential step that elevates the presentation of this dish, making it visually appealing.
It transforms a comforting dish into a feast for the eyes.
Nutritional Benefits
This chickpea curry offers a balanced meal option, catering to various dietary preferences.
With around 350 calories per serving, it fits well within many meal plans.
Its rich nutrient profile, including healthy fats and protein, ensures that it’s as fulfilling as it is flavorful.
FAQ
How do you make chickpea curry from scratch?
To make chickpea curry, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger with spices like curry powder or garam masala. Add cooked chickpeas, coconut milk, and tomatoes, then simmer until thickened. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Can I use canned chickpeas for curry?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are a convenient option and work perfectly in curry. Just rinse them well to remove excess sodium before using.
What vegetables pair well with chickpea curry?
Vegetables like spinach, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and cauliflower are great additions. They enhance the flavor and add more nutrients to the dish.