Description
A rich, creamy, and flavorful vegan twist on the classic Indian butter chicken dish, using chickpeas instead of meat. This Indian butter chickpeas recipe is packed with warming spices and makes a satisfying, plant-based meal perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil (olive or coconut)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 400g (14oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 x 400g (14oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 200ml (3/4 cup) coconut milk
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan, to serve
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, and sugar. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Add the drained chickpeas and stir to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the coconut milk and let the curry cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander, alongside rice or naan.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
- Add more chili if you prefer a spicier curry.
- This dish freezes well – perfect for meal prep.
- You can substitute chickpeas with lentils or tofu for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
