Craving a flavorful, healthy, and easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Indian butter chickpea recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with protein and flavor, making it a fantastic choice for a quick dinner or a healthy lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a delightful taste of authentic Indian cuisine without the lengthy preparation. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and slightly toasted. This process, called blooming, releases their full flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Chickpeas and Cream
Stir in the rinsed and drained chickpeas. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to heat through and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, naan bread, or roti.
Cooking Tips for the Best Indian Butter Chickpea:
- For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of olive oil.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend a portion of the cooked sauce before adding the chickpeas.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. Start with less and add more if you like a spicier dish.
- Don't overcook the chickpeas; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
Variations:
- Spinach Butter Chickpea: Add a cup of fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Potato Butter Chickpea: Add 1 cup of cubed potatoes along with the chickpeas.
- Coconut Butter Chickpea: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a delicious vegan twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This Indian butter chickpea recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick and satisfying lunch. It's a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes!