Name: Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 cup tomato puree; 1/2 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas: A Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Curry with a Silky Sauce 🌱🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying vegetarian dish, look no further than Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas. This dish is a delightful Indian vegetarian curry made with tender chickpeas simmered in a rich, buttery, and aromatic sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this creamy chickpeas recipe is simple to make and sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious dish from scratch.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas

2 cups canned chickpeas (or cooked dried chickpeas)
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 tbsp butter or ghee
1 cup tomato purée
1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-step Instructions to Make Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas

Preparing the Base

Start by heating butter or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Cooking Aromatics

Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavors.

Adding Tomatoes and Chickpeas

Pour in the tomato purée and stir well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, add the chickpeas, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture.

Simmering with Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk or heavy cream and mix thoroughly. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chickpeas simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust salt and spice levels as needed.

Finishing Touches

Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot. For an extra touch of authenticity, you can also serve this dish with Indian-style basmati rice or warm naan bread.

4. Storage Tips for Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas

Allow the curry to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to a month.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Indian Chickpea Experience

This Indian butter chickpea dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice, naan, or even quinoa for a healthy twist. Garnish with extra cilantro, a squeeze of lemon, or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor. For a complete Indian-inspired meal, explore other recipes like vegetable soup or creamy tomato soup.

6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: A durable set that ensures even heating, perfect for simmering and sautéing to create your vegetarian curry.
Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: Great for quick reheating of leftovers or making crispy naan or rice.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: For quick grilling of vegetables or naan bread to serve alongside your creamy chickpeas.
Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker with 8 Shaping Discs: If you prefer making your own rice or flatbreads from scratch, this pasta maker can be adapted for dough.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use coconut milk instead of dairy cream to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Soak dried chickpeas overnight, then cook them until tender before adding to the curry. Adjust cooking times as needed.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time is approximately 30-40 minutes, including prep and simmering. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner with rich flavors.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides like rice or gluten-free naan.

8. Conclusion

Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas is an irresistible vegetarian curry with a luscious, spiced sauce that highlights the versatility and richness of chickpeas. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, wholesome, and guaranteed to satisfy. Experiment with toppings, sides, and spice levels to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the flavors of India right in your kitchen!

Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas