Creamy Coconut Chickpea Curry (Printable)

Tender chickpeas in creamy coconut sauce with aromatic spices, ready in 40 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
02 - 1 large onion, finely diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 inch piece ginger, grated

→ Spices

05 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
06 - 2 teaspoons ground coriander
07 - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
08 - 1 teaspoon garam masala
09 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Main

13 - 2 cans (14 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
14 - 1 can (14 fluid ounces) full-fat coconut milk
15 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
16 - 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
17 - 2 cups baby spinach, optional
18 - Juice of 1 lime

→ Garnish

19 - Chopped fresh cilantro
20 - Lime wedges

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toast for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
04 - Add drained chickpeas, diced tomatoes with juices, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with lid, and cook for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
06 - Remove lid and add baby spinach if using. Simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
07 - Stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
08 - Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with steamed basmati rice or gluten-free flatbread.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Simple to make in just 40 minutes using basic pantry staples.
  • Fully vegan and naturally gluten-free for a healthy meal option.
  • Incredibly creamy and rich thanks to the addition of coconut milk.
  • Packed with plant-based protein and vibrant, aromatic spices.
02 -
  • Toast the spices for exactly one minute to release their natural oils and maximize the aromatic profile of the dish.
  • Using full-fat coconut milk provides the best creamy consistency, though light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie alternative.
  • Always ensure your packaged spices and broth are certified gluten-free if catering to specific dietary requirements.
Go Back