Chickpea curry, also known as chana masala, is a popular vegetarian Indian dish made with chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, as chickpeas are packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a simple and flavorful chickpea curry that you can enjoy with rice or naan for a satisfying meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Chickpea Curry
For the Curry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or naan bread
How to Make Chickpea Curry
Preparation:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
Making the Chickpea Curry:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the Spices:
- Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Cook the spices with the onion mixture for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Simmer with Tomatoes:
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pan and stir to combine.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Add Chickpeas and Coconut Milk:
- Stir in the drained and rinsed chickpeas, coating them in the tomato mixture.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Curry:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve:
- Serve the chickpea curry hot over cooked rice or with naan bread.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Chickpeas:
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are the star ingredient in this curry. They are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious and filling addition to any meal.
Onion, Garlic, and Ginger:
These aromatics form the base of the curry, adding depth and flavor. The onion provides sweetness, while the garlic and ginger add a spicy kick and warmth.
Spices:
A blend of ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (optional) gives the curry its signature flavor and aroma. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Tomatoes:
Diced tomatoes provide the base for the curry sauce, adding a tangy sweetness that balances the spices.
Coconut Milk:
Coconut milk adds creaminess to the curry and helps mellow out the spices. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Fresh Cilantro:
Fresh cilantro is used as a garnish, adding a pop of freshness and a burst of flavor to the finished dish.
Chickpea curry is a comforting and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger Indian meal. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
