Indian Butter Chickpeas: A Flavorful Plant-Based Comfort Dish
Why Butter Chickpeas?
Butter chickpeas offer the same smooth, spiced, and comforting flavors as traditional butter chicken, but in a healthier and easier-to-make version. Chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, and important nutrients. They soak up flavors well, which makes them perfect for slow-cooked curries.
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even quinoa and is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time.
Ingredients:
For the curry:
- 2 tablespoons oil or vegan butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 (15-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can of full-fat coconut milk (or ½ cup heavy cream for non-vegan version)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar (to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional for extra flavor:
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for deeper flavor)
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Warm oil or vegan butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Incorporate chopped onions and sauté until they are tender and golden brown, which should take around 5–7 minutes. Mix in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until they become aromatic.
2. Add Spices
Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to release the flavors. Be careful not to burn the spices.
3. Create the Base
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and optional tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the tomato to cook down and deepen in flavor.
4. Creamy Goodness
Add the coconut milk (or cream), maple syrup (or sugar), and fenugreek leaves. Mix until the sauce is creamy and evenly combined.
5. Add Chickpeas
Stir in the chickpeas and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the chickpeas to absorb the rich, buttery flavors.
6. Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as needed. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
With Rice: Basmati rice is a traditional favorite.
With Bread: Naan, roti, or paratha work wonderfully to scoop up the creamy curry.
As a Bowl: Serve over brown rice or quinoa with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome bowl meal.
Final Thoughts
Indian Butter Chickpeas are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for anyone wanting to try their hand at Indian cooking. They are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and can easily fit different dietary preferences. Whether you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, or just want to enjoy a tasty new meal, this creamy chickpea curry is sure to become a favorite!