Name: Butter Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp dairy-free butter; 1 small onion, diced; 1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, minced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 15 oz. canned tomato sauce; 1/4 cup water; 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup canned coconut milk, mixed to eliminate clumps; 1 tbsp cornstarch; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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This Butter Chickpeas recipe is a delightful twist on a classic. If you’re like me, you probably love the comforting appeal of a warm curry. And guess what? This dish brings all those rich flavors right to your table while being completely plant-based. Think about it: hearty chickpeas replace chicken, making this recipe a protein-packed powerhouse without skimping on taste. The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a cozy curry that’s super easy to whip up, especially on those busy weeknights.

Plus, Butter Chickpeas are welcoming—the kind of dish that invites you to gather around the table and share a meal with family and friends. From the first bite, you’ll find the warmth wrapping around you, making it a great go-to recipe for any occasion. So, grab your apron; let’s cook up something special!

Why This Recipe Works

This Butter Chickpeas recipe brings together rich flavors and vibrant spices, making it an irresistible dish that captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine while being completely plant-based. By using chickpeas instead of chicken, this recipe offers a hearty, protein-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a comforting curry that’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chickpeas

You’ll adore this Butter Chickpeas dish because it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and wraps you in comforting warmth. The best part? It comes together so effortlessly in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to favorite for your family and friends. Plus, with its vegan-friendly profile, everyone at the table can indulge in its creamy goodness! When paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious Butter Chickpeas, gather up the following ingredients:

2 tbsp dairy-free butter
1 small onion, diced
1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
15 oz. canned tomato sauce
1/4 cup water
15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup canned coconut milk, mixed to eliminate clumps
1 tbsp cornstarch
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Melting the Butter

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the dairy-free butter and allow it to melt completely, creating a rich base for the dish.

Sautéing Aromatics

Once the butter is melted, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced ginger and garlic. Next, sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Sauté this aromatic blend for an additional minute to really release the flavors.

Combining the Sauce Ingredients

Pour in the canned tomato sauce along with the water. Next, add the rinsed chickpeas to the mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the chickpeas are well-coated in the spices and sauce, bringing it all to life.

Thickening the Curry

In a separate small bowl, mix the coconut milk and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture into the skillet and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving the Butter Chickpeas

Once the curry has thickened just right, take the skillet off the heat. Serve the Butter Chickpeas warm over rice or your choice of grain. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra touch of flavor and vibrancy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Butter Chickpeas with steamed basmati rice, fluffy quinoa, or warm naan bread for a well-rounded meal. If you want to add a bit of freshness, a side of sautéed greens or a lively salad can complement the richness of the curry beautifully.

Tips for Success

Make sure to sauté the spices properly; it really enhances their flavors.
Adjust the spiciness by increasing or reducing the amount of chili powder based on how much heat you enjoy.
If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer without the lid to reach that perfect texture.

Variations

For a fun twist on this Butter Chickpeas recipe, consider adding seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You could also mix in different legumes or lentils for added texture and nutrition, making it uniquely yours!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to keep it creamy.

Pairing Ideas

Elevate your meal by serving it with a light cucumber raita or zesty mango chutney. A refreshing glass of chilled chai or sparkling water can complement the flavors beautifully, rounding out the experience.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the Butter Chickpeas ahead of time. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes, as long as you confirm that your ingredients like cornstarch and tomato sauce are gluten-free.

Q3: Can I add protein?
A3: Absolutely! You can mix in cooked tofu or a plant-based protein for extra heartiness.

Q4: What can I substitute for coconut milk?
A4: Almond milk or any other plant-based milk works too, just adjust the thickness by adding more cornstarch.

Q5: How spicy is this dish?
A5: The spice level can be tailored to your liking by varying the chili powder; the recipe aims to be mild to medium.

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy, flavorful Butter Chickpeas recipe. It delivers all the creaminess and taste of traditional butter chicken in a vegan-friendly form. Enjoy it with rice or bread, and don’t forget to share with loved ones for a delightful dining experience!