This Spiced Chickpea Curry is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the richness of spices with the earthiness of chickpeas. It’s a comforting, plant-based meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With a blend of aromatic spices, tomatoes, and fresh coriander, this curry is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Serve it with rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Dried Chickpeas: 1 cup (200 grams)
- Water: For soaking and cooking
- Vegetable Oil: For cooking
- Red Onion: 1 (250 grams), finely chopped
- Grated Garlic: 1 tablespoon (15 grams)
- Grated Ginger: 1 tablespoon (15 grams)
- Hot Pepper (Optional): To taste, finely chopped
- Paprika or Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Water: As needed
- Tomatoes: 3 (350 grams), pureed
- Chopped Coriander: 1/2 cup
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
Instructions:
- Soak the Chickpeas:
- Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with water. Soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. The chickpeas will expand as they soak, so ensure there’s plenty of water.
- Cook the Chickpeas:
- After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas. Place them in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the chickpeas are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Spice Base:
- In a large pan or pot, heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the grated garlic, grated ginger, and hot pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices:
- Add the cumin seeds, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika or chili powder, and salt to the onion mixture. Stir well to coat the onions and let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing their flavors to develop.
- Add the Tomatoes:
- Pour the pureed tomatoes into the pan and stir well to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomato sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Simmer the Curry:
- Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and stir to coat them with the tomato and spice mixture.
- If the curry seems too thick, add a little water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined.
- Finish the Curry:
- Stir in the chopped coriander and butter, allowing the butter to melt into the curry. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the chickpea curry hot, garnished with additional chopped coriander if desired. It pairs well with steamed rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.
Additional Information
Tips:
- Soaking Chickpeas: If you’re short on time, you can use canned chickpeas instead of dried. Simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the curry.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or hot pepper to suit your heat preference. For a milder curry, reduce the amount or omit the hot pepper.
- Butter Substitute: For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or a drizzle of coconut milk for richness.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This curry freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chickpeas: A great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate.
- Spices: The combination of turmeric, cumin, and coriander provides anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Possible Questions:
- Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, canned chickpeas work well in this recipe and save time. Simply drain and rinse them before adding to the curry. - What can I serve with this chickpea curry?
This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, naan, roti, or any type of flatbread. - How can I make this curry creamier?
You can stir in some coconut milk, yogurt, or cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture. - Is this curry spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder or hot pepper. Omit the hot pepper for a milder curry. - Can I add other vegetables to the curry?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers for additional texture and nutrition. - How do I make the curry less salty?
If the curry is too salty, add more tomatoes or a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. - What type of tomatoes should I use?
Fresh, ripe tomatoes are best, but canned tomatoes or tomato puree can be used if fresh ones aren’t available. - How long does it take to cook dried chickpeas?
Cooking dried chickpeas can take 1-1.5 hours after soaking, depending on their size and freshness. - Can I use ghee instead of butter?
Yes, ghee adds a rich, nutty flavor and is a traditional fat used in many Indian curries. - Can I make this curry ahead of time?
Yes, this curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s a great dish to prepare in advance.
Conclusion:
This Spiced Chickpea Curry is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the warmth of spices and the heartiness of chickpeas. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, this curry is sure to satisfy. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to your taste. Serve it with rice or flatbread for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this homemade curry anytime you crave something comforting and flavorful!