Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This ground beef and chickpea curry is packed with flavor, brimming with healthy ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and simple, even on busy weeknights. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your delicious dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat. This ensures a leaner and healthier meal.
Step 3: Add Spices and Simmer
Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This step is key to unlocking the full depth of flavor in your curry.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread. This flavorful and hearty meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your liking. For a milder curry, use less; for a spicier kick, add more!
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach, for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Lemon-herb curry: Add the zest and juice of one lemon at the end of cooking, along with a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
- Beef and chickpea stew: Omit the chili powder for a milder, stew-like consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This ground beef and chickpea curry recipe is a testament to how easy and satisfying healthy meals can be. It's a versatile and delicious dish that you can easily customize to your preferences, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!