Chickpea Curry Recipe

Introduction

Chickpea Curry is a beloved vegan dish that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the vibrant flavors of Indian spices. This hearty and nutritious meal is perfect for those looking for a comforting and wholesome plant-based option. With the addition of spinach and a rich coconut milk base, this curry is both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

  • Chickpeas: 2 cans (rinsed and drained)
  • Spinach: 2 cups
  • Large onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Medium-sized tomatoes: 2, diced
  • Garlic: 2 tablespoons, minced
  • Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Cumin seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • Ground turmeric: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground coriander: 1.5 teaspoons
  • Ground cumin: 1.5 teaspoons
  • Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: to taste
  • Coconut milk: 1 cup
  • Cilantro: for garnish

Instructions

Preparing the Base

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
  2. Add Cumin Seeds: Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.

Sautéing the Vegetables

  1. Add Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  2. Incorporate Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant.

Building the Curry

  1. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to break down and form a thick paste.
  2. Spice It Up: Add the ground turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions and tomatoes with the spices.

Adding Chickpeas and Spinach

  1. Mix in Chickpeas: Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to the pan, stirring to combine them with the spiced tomato mixture.
  2. Cook Spinach: Add the spinach and cook until it wilts, stirring frequently.

Finishing the Curry

  1. Pour Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to create a creamy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  2. Adjust Seasoning: Add salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serving

  1. Garnish and Serve: Once the curry has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chickpea Curry

  • Consistency: If you prefer a thicker curry, let it simmer for a longer period. For a thinner curry, add a bit more coconut milk or water.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve this curry over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.
  • Flavor Enhancement: For an added depth of flavor, you can toast the ground spices in a dry pan before adding them to the curry.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Calcium: 80 mg
  • Iron: 4 mg

Additional Tips

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Customization: Customize the level of heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh green chilies.
  • Protein Boost: Add tofu or tempeh for an extra protein boost if desired.

This Chickpea Curry is a delightful vegan meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and the wholesome ingredients in this easy-to-make dish.