Name: Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 1 can diced tomatoes ((16 ounces)); 1 can chickpeas ((16 ounces)); 1 can coconut milk ((full fat preferred)); 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 3 cups baby spinach; Salt (to taste); Red pepper flakes (to taste); Pepper (to taste)

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There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of curry, especially when it’s as easy to whip up as this Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavors, this dish brings the warmth of home cooking right to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry is not just a one-time wonder; it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Here are a few reasons why:

– **Quick Preparation**: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– **Nutrient-Rich**: Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while spinach adds a dose of vitamins and minerals.
– **Versatile**: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to match your palate.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: Make a big batch and freeze portions for those nights when cooking feels like a chore.
– **Plant-Based Delight**: This recipe caters to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.

What Goes In

To create this delightful Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 can diced tomatoes (16 ounces)
1 can chickpeas (16 ounces)
1 can coconut milk (full fat preferred)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
3 cups baby spinach
Salt to taste
Red pepper flakes to taste
Pepper to taste

Tools of the Trade

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your curry experience smooth and enjoyable:

Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing and simmering your curry.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate spice measurements.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping your onions, garlic, and ginger.
Canned goods opener: Essential for opening your chickpeas and diced tomatoes.

Make Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry: A Simple Method

Follow these straightforward steps to create your Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Sprinkle in the turmeric, garam masala, cumin, and paprika. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to bloom for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the chickpeas (drained and rinsed) and the coconut milk to the skillet. Stir until everything is well mixed. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Once simmering, add in the baby spinach, stirring until it wilts down. This should take just a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Season your curry with salt, red pepper flakes, and pepper to your liking. Let the curry simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Fit It to Your Goals

This Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry is adaptable to fit various dietary goals:

Gluten-Free: All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Low-Calorie: By using light coconut milk, you can reduce calories while keeping the flavor.
Protein Boost: Add tofu or tempeh for an extra protein punch.
Vegetable Power: Toss in any vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrients.

Avoid These Mistakes

When making this Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Not rinsing the chickpeas: Rinsing helps remove excess sodium and improves the flavor.
Overcooking the spinach: It should wilt but not become mushy; add it towards the end of cooking.
Skipping the spices: They’re essential for flavor; don’t be tempted to lessen them!
Using low-fat coconut milk: While it’s healthier, it doesn’t provide the same creaminess and richness as full-fat.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry fresh, consider these storage tips:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this curry in advance?

Absolutely! This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge after cooking and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I use different beans?

Yes! While chickpeas are traditional, feel free to substitute with other beans like black beans or kidney beans for a different twist.

What can I serve with this curry?

This Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry pairs wonderfully with creamy golden rice, quinoa, or even naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.

If you love this Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry, you will also enjoy these quick and tasty recipes:

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry is ready, serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor. The creamy texture coupled with the warm spices makes for a comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or with a side of rice or naan, this Easy Chickpea Coconut Curry promises a delightful culinary experience that will have you coming back for seconds.