All products are selected by our editorial team for quality. If you buy through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
This Easy Chickpea Curry stands out as a wonderfully flavorful and nourishing dish that’s both comforting and wholesome.
Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, it supports muscle health and sustained energy, while the fiber content promotes digestion and fullness.
The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture and healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides, which may aid metabolism and brain health.
With spices like curry powder and cumin, this recipe offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, enhancing its nutritional profile.
It’s a fantastic choice for everyday cooking because it’s simple to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and delivers rich, satisfying flavors without the need for complicated ingredients or techniques.
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a family, this curry can be easily paired with rice or naan for a balanced, hearty meal that appeals to both vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat intake.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Heavy-Bottomed Pot
Essential for even heat distribution and preventing scorching during the slow cooking of onions and spices. This versatile cookware is a kitchen staple for soups, stews, and curries alike.
Wooden Spoon
Ideal for stirring the curry and gently scraping the browned bits off the pan’s bottom, unlocking deep flavors. Its gentle touch also protects non-stick surfaces and won’t conduct heat.
Measuring Spoons
Precise measurement of spices like curry powder and cumin ensures balanced, consistent flavor every time. A must-have for any recipe requiring seasoning control.
Colander
Crucial for draining and rinsing canned chickpeas thoroughly, which helps reduce excess sodium and improve texture. Its multi-use design is great for washing vegetables and draining pasta.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Perfect for slicing onions and mincing garlic quickly and safely, enhancing prep efficiency. A reliable, sharp knife is indispensable for all kitchen tasks.
Weeknight Wonder Chickpea Curry
Equipment
- 1 Heavy-bottomed pot or large, high-walled pan
- 1 Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
- Measuring spoons (for spices)
- 1 Colander (for draining chickpeas)
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
- 1 to 2 tablespoons curry powder adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 13.5-ounce can coconut milk
- 2 15-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges optional, for serving
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread optional, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and crushed red chili flakes.Stir occasionally, cooking gently until the onions turn a rich golden brown and become very soft—this should take about 15 minutes. If the mixture starts to stick or dry out, splash in a little water to keep it moist.
- Toast the Spices: Raise the heat to medium. Sprinkle in the curry powder and ground cumin, stirring constantly for about 60 seconds.This brief toasting helps release the full aroma and flavor of the spices.
- Add Tomatoes and Deglaze: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and use a wooden or silicone spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add depth to the sauce. Stir everything to combine evenly.
- Stir in Coconut Milk and Chickpeas: Slowly pour in the coconut milk, then add the drained chickpeas. Stir well to mix all ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chickpeas soften.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the curry and season with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference.If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges, with basmati rice or naan bread.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more or less crushed red chili flakes depending on how spicy you like your curry.
- Oil Alternatives: Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor, but vegetable oil works well if you prefer a neutral taste.
- Tomato Texture: If you want a smoother sauce, you can blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them.
- Make Ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Tip: This curry freezes well — cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Chef’s Secrets for Rich Flavor
The secret to a deeply flavorful chickpea curry lies in slowly caramelizing the onions until they reach a golden-brown hue.
This process develops natural sweetness and creates a complex base that enhances every bite.
Toasting the spices briefly before adding the liquids unlocks their full aroma, making the dish fragrant and robust. Using canned crushed tomatoes gives a vibrant tang while saving time, but fresh tomatoes can be used if you prefer a fresher taste.
When simmering, keeping the heat low allows the coconut milk to meld seamlessly with the spices and chickpeas, resulting in a creamy, luscious texture.
Lastly, don’t rush seasoning — tasting and adjusting salt, pepper, and spice levels at the end ensures a balanced, personalized curry.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This versatile curry pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, which help soak up the rich sauce.
For a lighter option, serve it alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal. Garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime adds brightness and a hint of freshness that balances the dish’s warmth.
To create a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed greens such as spinach or kale, or a simple cucumber salad with yogurt dressing for cooling contrast.
This curry also shines as a hearty filling for wraps or as a topping for baked sweet potatoes, offering endless ways to enjoy its flavors.
Storage Tips for Freshness Longevity
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to keep the curry fresh for up to four days.
When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling the coconut milk. If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it before serving. For longer storage, this curry freezes beautifully.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. Avoid freezing with rice or naan, as their textures do not always hold up well; prepare those fresh when ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the curry. This will add extra time but offers a fresher, less processed option.
Q2: Is this curry vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe uses plant-based ingredients and no gluten-containing products, making it suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free sides if needed.
Q3: Can I substitute coconut milk?
You can use other creamy alternatives like cashew cream or soy milk, but coconut milk adds unique richness and flavor that complements the curry spices perfectly.
Q4: How spicy is this curry?
The heat level can be easily adjusted by varying the crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and increase to your preferred spice tolerance.
Q5: What can I add to increase protein?
For extra protein, consider adding cooked lentils, tofu cubes, or even some shredded chicken if you’re not strictly vegetarian. These options blend well without overpowering the curry’s taste.
This recipe is inspired by hostthetoast and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.