I’m all about quick meals that pack a punch, and this Quick and Easy Chickpea Curry is one of my absolute favorites! It’s a super simple recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want something tasty and satisfying. Plus, it’s totally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love? Let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy: You can have this delicious curry on your table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those busy days when you’re craving something homemade but don’t have all day to cook.
✔ Flavor-Packed: The blend of curry powder, chili powder, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich, warm flavor that’ll leave you coming back for more.
✔ Vegan & Gluten-Free: Whether you follow a plant-based diet or just want a meal that’s both satisfying and light, this recipe is made for you.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily make this in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well and tastes even better after a day or two!
✔ Protein Power: With chickpeas as the base, you’re getting a good amount of plant-based protein to fuel your day.
✔ Refreshing Raita on the Side: The cool yogurt and cucumber raita balances out the warmth of the curry perfectly—trust me, you’ll love the contrast!
✔ Affordable: All the ingredients are budget-friendly, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry.
✔ Customizable: Feel free to throw in any extra veggies or spices you like. Make it your own!
This recipe really hits all the right notes—easy, delicious, and full of flavor. Enjoy!
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What You’ll Need To Make
Let’s talk about some of the awesome ingredients that make this Chickpea Curry so delicious and satisfying:
→ Chickpeas: The star of the dish! These little guys are packed with plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized. Plus, they soak up all the spices and flavors beautifully.
→ Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a sweet and tangy punch that takes this curry to the next level. A little goes a long way in giving it that extra depth of flavor!
→ Curry Powder & Chili Powder: These two spices are a game-changer! They create that signature curry flavor—warm, earthy, and just the right amount of heat. Don’t skip these!
→ Soy Yogurt: We’re keeping it dairy-free with some natural soy yogurt, which gives this dish a creamy texture without the dairy. It’s perfect for mixing into a refreshing raita on the side!
→ Fresh Cilantro & Lime: These fresh ingredients bring in a zesty and bright touch, balancing out the rich flavors of the curry. Cilantro adds a fresh bite, and the lime juice gives it that tangy zing.
Each of these ingredients brings something special to the table, making this curry not only quick and easy but super flavorful too!
NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.
What You’ll Need To Do
Time required: 20 mins
1| Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for about a minute until things start smelling amazing.
2| Now, sprinkle in the curry powder and chili powder, and cook for another 30 seconds to let those flavors really pop!
3| Add in the chickpeas (with all the delicious liquid), and pour in about 200ml of water. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Toss in the cilantro and give it a little taste – add salt as needed!
4| While that’s simmering, let’s whip up some raita! In a bowl, mix the yogurt with lime juice, cucumber, dried mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir!
5| When everything’s ready, serve up the chickpea curry with a generous dollop of that refreshing raita on the side. Enjoy!
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Recipe Swaps & Creative Tweaks
Here are some fun recipe swaps and tweak ideas to make your Chickpea Curry even more exciting or fit your preferences:
Recipe Swaps:
1| Chickpeas → Lentils: If you’re looking to switch things up, use lentils instead of chickpeas! Red lentils cook faster and still absorb the curry flavors beautifully.
2| Soy Yogurt → Coconut Yogurt: Want a richer, creamier texture? Try swapping in coconut yogurt for that extra indulgent flavor. It’ll add a slight tropical twist!
3| Curry Powder → Garam Masala or Madras Curry Powder: For a deeper, more complex flavor, try swapping your curry powder with garam masala or madras curry powder. It’ll kick up the spice and add a whole new dimension.
4| Sun-Dried Tomatoes → Fresh Tomatoes or Tomato Paste: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, use fresh tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for a slightly different (but still delicious) flavor base.
5| Cucumber in Raita → Carrot or Zucchini: Add a fun twist to the raita by using finely grated carrot or zucchini instead of cucumber. It’ll add a nice crunch and subtle sweetness.
Tweak Ideas:
1| Extra Veggies: Feeling extra veggie-loaded? Toss in some spinach, kale, or bell peppers to bulk up the dish and add more nutrients.
2| Spice Level: Want more heat? Add some chopped fresh chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to really bring the heat to your curry.
3| Coconut Milk: For a richer, creamier curry, stir in a splash of coconut milk instead of water. It’ll give your curry a beautiful silky texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
4| Add Protein: If you want to make this even heartier, throw in some tofu or tempeh for an extra boost of protein.
5| Serve with Rice or Naan: While the curry is delicious on its own, pairing it with steamed basmati rice or some warm naan bread will make it a full meal and take it to the next level.
These swaps and tweaks let you get creative with the recipe while still keeping it easy and delicious. Feel free to experiment and make this curry your own!
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Helpful Tips for Success
Here are some useful tips to make your Chickpea Curry even better:
1| Rinse the Chickpeas: If you’re using canned chickpeas, rinse them well to remove excess salt and the liquid they come in. This helps prevent the curry from being too salty and gives the chickpeas a cleaner taste.
2| Don’t Skip the Simmering: Letting the curry simmer for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together. Be patient—this is where the magic happens!
3| Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your curry before serving! You may want to add a little more salt, lime juice, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
4| Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or fresh chopped chilies. You can also throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
5| Use Fresh Cilantro at the End: Adding fresh cilantro at the end helps keep its vibrant color and flavor intact. It adds a fresh and zesty finish to the curry.
6| Make It Ahead: This curry stores well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors only get better with time. Perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
7| Don’t Overcook the Raita: When making the raita, don’t overmix it! You want it to have a little texture from the cucumber and mint—don’t turn it into a smooth dip.
8| Try with Other Beans: If you don’t have chickpeas, feel free to swap in other beans like kidney beans or black beans. They’ll still absorb the curry flavors and work beautifully.
9| Serve with Rice or Naan: While the curry is delicious on its own, pairing it with a side of fluffy rice or soft naan bread makes it a filling meal.
These little tips will help you get the most out of your recipe and make sure you enjoy every bite! Happy cooking!
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Is it possible to make Keto, Low Carb, and Paleo versions of this Chickpea Curry?
Here’s how you can tweak the recipe for each of these diets:
Keto Version:
The main challenge here is that chickpeas are relatively high in carbs, which isn’t ideal for a Keto diet. Here’s how to adjust:
- Swap the Chickpeas: Instead of chickpeas, use cauliflower or zucchini. Both are low in carbs and will absorb the curry flavors well.
- Coconut Milk: To make the curry creamy and rich, use full-fat coconut milk instead of soy yogurt or any dairy.
- Raita: For a Keto-friendly raita, use unsweetened coconut yogurt or almond yogurt instead of soy yogurt.
- Add More Healthy Fats: Incorporate a little olive oil or avocado into the curry to bump up the healthy fats.
Low Carb Version:
For a low-carb version, the idea is to reduce the amount of starchy ingredients (like chickpeas), but you can keep it simple with a few tweaks:
- Swap the Chickpeas: Use chopped cauliflower or shredded cabbage to replace chickpeas. Both are low in carbs but still provide some texture to the dish.
- Limit High-Carb Veggies: If you want to keep it lower in carbs, avoid adding extra starchy vegetables like carrots. Stick to veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Raita: Use a low-carb yogurt (like Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt) for the raita, and avoid sweeteners or higher-carb options.
Paleo Version:
To make the recipe Paleo-friendly, you’ll need to avoid any processed or dairy ingredients. Here’s how:
- Swap Soy Yogurt: Instead of soy yogurt, use coconut milk or coconut cream for the creamy texture. You can also use cashew cream if you want something a bit thicker.
- Swap the Chickpeas: Chickpeas aren’t Paleo, so swap them with cauliflower (for a similar texture) or sweet potato (for a slightly sweeter, hearty alternative).
- Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more vegetables and nutrients to the curry.
- Use Paleo-Friendly Spices: Make sure all your spices are free from additives (like anti-caking agents). Stick to pure curry powder and chili powder.
Common Adjustments for All Versions:
- Avoid adding any legumes (for Paleo) or grains like rice (for Keto).
- You can increase the healthy fats by adding coconut oil or ghee (for Paleo) instead of regular oils.
These swaps will help you tailor the recipe to fit Keto, Low Carb, or Paleo diets while keeping it flavorful and satisfying!
Serving Ideas
Here are some tasty serving ideas to make your Chickpea Curry even more delicious and fun:
1. Serve with Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb or Keto-friendly option, cauliflower rice is a perfect side. It’s light, fluffy, and soaks up the curry’s flavors beautifully.
2. Pair with Naan or Flatbread: If you’re not following a low-carb or Keto diet, serve the curry with warm, soft naan or your favorite flatbread. It’s perfect for dipping into that rich, flavorful sauce!
3. Top with Avocado: For an extra creamy touch, slice some fresh avocado on top of your curry. The cool, buttery texture pairs perfectly with the warm, spicy curry.
4. Serve with a Fresh Salad: Balance out the rich curry with a refreshing salad. A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette works wonders and adds a nice crunch.
5. Serve with Steamed Rice: If you’re not on a low-carb or Keto diet, traditional steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing with curry. It’ll soak up all that delicious sauce!
6. Add a Side of Raita: Serve your curry with a cool side of raita (the yogurt-cucumber dip). It helps to balance the spices and adds a refreshing contrast to the warm curry.
7. Stuff in Lettuce Wraps: For a fun twist, serve your curry in lettuce wraps! This is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter, grain-free alternative. Just scoop the curry into the lettuce leaves, and you’ve got yourself a healthy and tasty bite!
8. Pair with Roasted Veggies: Roast up some veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers and serve them alongside the curry. The sweetness of roasted veggies complements the spiciness of the curry perfectly.
9. Top with Nuts or Seeds: Add a little crunch by topping your curry with toasted almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds. It adds texture and a nice nutty flavor to every bite!
10. Serve with Pickles or Chutney: A side of tangy pickle or chutney adds an extra layer of flavor. Whether it’s mango chutney or a tangy lime pickle, it’s a great way to enhance the dish.
These serving ideas will make your chickpea curry even more satisfying and will help you mix things up depending on your cravings or dietary preferences! Enjoy experimenting!
Here are some drink pairings that would go perfectly with your Chickpea Curry—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options:
Wine Pairings:
1| Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the bold flavors of the curry. Its acidity helps balance the richness of the dish while complementing the spices.
2| Riesling: For a little sweetness to offset the spice, try a Riesling. The slight sweetness of the wine will cut through the heat of the curry while enhancing the earthy flavors of the chickpeas.
3| Pinot Grigio: Another great white wine choice, Pinot Grigio is light and refreshing with citrusy notes that pair nicely with the freshness of cilantro and lime in the curry.
4| Grenache: If you prefer red wine, a Grenache (a lighter-bodied red) works well. It has berry-like flavors that won’t overpower the curry’s spices and adds a touch of depth to the meal.
5| Rosé: A dry Rosé is a versatile pairing that offers a balance of fruitiness and acidity. It’s a great option if you want something refreshing and light but still with a bit of character to stand up to the flavors.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings:
1| Iced Lemon Water: Sometimes, simple is best! Iced lemon water is light, refreshing, and helps cleanse your palate between bites. The citrusy notes make it a perfect balance with the spices.
2| Minted Iced Tea: A mint iced tea adds a refreshing and herbal touch that works great alongside curry. The mint complements the flavors in the dish, and the cold tea helps cool down the heat from the spices.
3| Coconut Water: Since this curry has some coconut milk in it, why not keep the theme going with coconut water? It’s hydrating, mildly sweet, and provides a light, tropical pairing that pairs really well with curry.
4| Lassi (Mango or Plain): A mango lassi (or plain yogurt lassi) is a classic drink to pair with curry. The creamy, slightly sweet yogurt balances out the spiciness, and the mango adds a fruity, refreshing note. It’s the perfect match to cool things down.
5| Sparkling Water with Lime: If you prefer something bubbly and light, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime is a great option. The bubbles refresh your palate while the lime adds a zesty touch.
6| Ginger Lemonade: Ginger lemonade is another great non-alcoholic choice. The ginger adds a little spice, while the lemon keeps things fresh and tangy. It’s a zesty way to pair with curry.
With these drink options, you can enhance your meal experience whether you’re sipping on a crisp glass of wine or enjoying a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage. Cheers (or should I say, enjoy your meal)! 🍷🥤
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Storage Options
Here are some storage options for your Chickpea Curry to keep it fresh and ready for later!
1. Storing Leftovers in the Fridge:
- Airtight Containers: Once your curry has cooled down, store it in airtight containers in the fridge. It’ll last for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep it fresh.
2. Freezing for Longer Storage:
- Freezer-Safe Containers or Ziplock Bags: If you want to store your curry for a longer period, freezer-safe containers or ziplock freezer bags are your best bet. The curry will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space for expansion if you’re using containers.
- Portion It Out: To make it easier to defrost, consider portioning out the curry into smaller containers or bags. This way, you can thaw just the amount you need without having to reheat everything.
3. Storing the Raita:
- Separate Containers: Since the raita is made with yogurt and fresh veggies, store it in a separate container in the fridge. It’ll last for about 2 to 3 days. It’s best to eat it fresh, but it still holds up well for a short time!
4. Reheating Tips:
- Microwave: For quick reheating, just pop the curry into the microwave in an microwave-safe container, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through.
- Stovetop: If you prefer to use the stovetop, reheat the curry in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much during storage.
5. Don’t Store for Too Long:
While the curry and raita can keep for a few days in the fridge or months in the freezer, it’s best to consume them within a reasonable time to preserve the texture and flavor. The curry tastes just as good (if not better) after a day or two of sitting in the fridge!
With these storage options, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to go for future cravings or meal prep. Enjoy!
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Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your new go-to weeknight meal! This chickpea curry is not only ridiculously easy to make, but it’s also loaded with all the good stuff. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just craving something comforting and delicious, this dish has you covered. So, grab that spoon and dive in—enjoy every bite!
Recipe Card
Quick and Easy Chickpea Curry
Looking for a super simple and tasty dinner? This chickpea curry is your answer! Ready in 20 minutes, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with flavor. Trust me, it’s a weeknight win! 🙌
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for approximately 1 minute until fragrant. -
Step 2:
Next, incorporate the curry powder and chili powder into the skillet, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom. -
Step 3:
Add the chickpeas, including the liquid, along with 200ml (6.8 fl oz) of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the curry has thickened slightly, stir in the fresh cilantro and season to taste with salt. -
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, combine the soy yogurt, lime juice, finely diced cucumber, dried mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the raita. -
Step 5:
To serve, ladle the chickpea curry into bowls and garnish with a generous portion of the raita. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 288kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4g7%
- Total Carbohydrate 49g17%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
