If you’re searching for a dish that’s packed with flavour, easy to prepare, and completely vegan, look no further! This Creamy Coconut Chickpea Curry is a comforting, hearty, and satisfying meal that brings warmth and bold flavors to your table. With the perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, protein-rich chickpeas, and an aromatic blend of spices, this dish is sure to become a household favourite.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious chickpea curry and share tips to customize it to your preferences. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, ideal for meal prep, and sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the world of coconut chickpea curry!
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Why Coconut Chickpea Curry?
Coconut chickpea curry is a staple in many vegan and plant-based kitchens for several reasons:
- Nutritious and Balanced: Chickpeas provide an excellent source of plant-based protein and fibre, while coconut milk adds a creamy richness, healthy fats, and tons of flavour. Paired with vegetables, this curry offers a well-balanced meal.
- Easy to Make: This curry is made in one pot, which means minimal cleanup! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious.
- Customisable: You can easily swap out vegetables or add in different spices to suit your personal tastes. This recipe is flexible and allows for plenty of experimentation.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This curry stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep and leftovers.
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Recipe: Creamy Vegan Coconut Chickpea Curry
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (optional, for added heat)
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk, full-fat for creaminess
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale), chopped
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
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Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
These aromatics form the flavour base of the curry, so take your time to ensure the onions are well-cooked without burning the garlic.
2. Bloom the Spices
Next, add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and chilli powder (if using). Stir the spices into the onion mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavours. This step is crucial for creating the deep, rich taste that makes curries so delicious.
3. Add the Chickpeas and Vegetables
Stir in the chickpeas, diced sweet potato, and chopped bell pepper. These ingredients add a hearty texture and vibrant colour to the dish. Toss everything together so the spices coat the chickpeas and vegetables evenly.
4. Simmer with Coconut Milk and Tomatoes
Pour in the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the liquid covers the vegetables. Bring the curry to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender.
The coconut milk adds creaminess and richness, while the tomatoes give the dish a slight tang that balances the flavours.
5. Add the Spinach and Adjust Seasoning
Once the sweet potato is cooked through, stir in the chopped spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly in the hot curry, adding a nice pop of colour and extra nutrients—season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. The lime juice brightens the flavours and adds a fresh citrus note that complements the creamy coconut.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the coconut chickpea curry into bowls and serve over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan on the side. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavour and freshness.
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Tips and Customization
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier curry, add more chilli powder or even a chopped fresh chili pepper. For a milder dish, omit the chilli powder and stick with the cumin, coriander, and turmeric for a fragrant but subtle flavour.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out or add more vegetables. Cauliflower, zucchini, carrots, or peas are excellent additions. You can also use frozen vegetables to save time on prep.
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein punch, you can add tofu or tempeh to the curry. Cube and cook them alongside the chickpeas and vegetables.
- Make it Thicker or Thinner: If you prefer a thicker curry, reduce the amount of vegetable broth. For a soupier consistency, add a little more broth or water.
- Gluten-Free Option: Serve the curry with gluten-free naan or over quinoa for a gluten-free version of this meal.
- Storing and Freezing: This curry keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to restore its creamy texture.
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Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Chickpea Curry
- Chickpeas: These humble legumes are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They help keep you full and support digestion.
- Coconut Milk: Although rich in fats, coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to be metabolized quickly, providing energy while supporting brain health.
- Spinach: Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium, making this curry not only hearty but also highly nutritious.
- Sweet Potatoes: These root vegetables are a great source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fibre, promoting overall health and wellness.
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Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
This creamy coconut chickpea curry isn’t just delicious—it’s also a versatile dish that works for a variety of occasions:
– Weeknight Dinners: The one-pot method and simple ingredients make it an easy choice for busy weeknights when you want something fast and wholesome.
– Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can cook a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.
– Entertaining: The vibrant colours and rich flavours make it a great dish to serve when hosting vegan or vegetarian guests. Pair it with rice, naan, and a light salad for a complete meal.
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The Bottom Line
This Creamy Vegan Coconut Chickpea Curry is the ultimate comfort food. It’s healthy, budget-friendly, and bursting with bold flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients and a simple cooking process, it’s a recipe that anyone can master, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner.
Whether you’re making it for a cosy night in or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a go-to favourite in your kitchen. Try it today and experience the magic of coconut chickpea curry!
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