Name: Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 4 tbsp coconut butter; ½ red onion; 1 clove garlic; 1 tsp pink himalayan salt; ½ tsp ground cumin; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp fennel seeds; ¼ tsp ground coriander; ¼ tsp ground turmeric; ¼ tsp garam masala; 1 tbsp cornstarch; ¼ cup water; 14 oz cream of coconut; 4 curry leaves; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ cup cooked chickpeas; 2 oz broccoli florets; 4 small baby bok choy

This creamy chickpea coconut curry is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the richness of coconut with the earthy goodness of chickpeas and a medley of spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is both comforting and satisfying.

Photos of Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to source some specific ingredients. Coconut butter, pink Himalayan salt, garam masala, and curry leaves are not always common in every household. These can typically be found in specialty sections of well-stocked supermarkets or Asian grocery stores.

Ingredients for Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

Coconut butter: A rich and creamy base for the curry, made from pureed coconut.

Red onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the curry.

Garlic: Provides a robust flavor and aromatic quality.

Pink Himalayan salt: Enhances the flavor with its unique mineral content.

Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.

Black pepper: Provides a mild heat and enhances the overall taste.

Fennel seeds: Adds a slight sweetness and a hint of licorice flavor.

Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy and nutty flavor.

Ground turmeric: Gives the curry its vibrant color and earthy flavor.

Garam masala: A blend of ground spices that adds warmth and complexity.

Cornstarch: Thickens the curry to a creamy consistency.

Water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch and adjust the curry's consistency.

Cream of coconut: Adds a rich and sweet coconut flavor.

Curry leaves: Infuses the curry with a unique and aromatic flavor.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat and spice to the curry.

Cooked chickpeas: The main protein source, adding texture and nutrition.

Broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, green element and a slight crunch.

Baby bok choy: Adds a tender and slightly sweet flavor when wilted.

One reader, Benji Witt says:

This creamy chickpea coconut curry is a delightful blend of flavors! The spices are perfectly balanced, and the coconut cream adds a rich, luscious texture. The chickpeas and veggies make it hearty and satisfying. A must-try for curry lovers!

Benji Witt

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

How to melt coconut butter: Place the coconut butter in a large saucepan over medium heat and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

How to cook onions and garlic: Dice the red onion and mince the garlic. Cook them in the melted coconut butter until they become translucent and lightly brown, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

How to season and mix spices: Add the salt, cumin, pepper, fennel seeds, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala to the pan. Stir until the spices are well incorporated with the onions and garlic.

How to make a cornstarch paste: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture and stir until it forms a creamy paste.

How to dissolve cornstarch: Slowly add water to the saucepan while stirring continuously to dissolve the cornstarch and thicken the mixture, ensuring there are no lumps.

How to cook chickpeas and broccoli: Add the chickpeas and broccoli to the pan and cook briefly until they are lightly crisp and tender.

How to simmer with coconut cream and curry leaves: Stir in the coconut cream and curry leaves, then cover the pan halfway with a lid. Simmer until the liquid reduces and thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.

How to reduce curry: Remove the lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook and stir until the liquid further reduces and the curry becomes thick and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes.

How to cook bok choy: Add the baby bok choy to the pan and cook until it wilts and the curry has reduced further, about another 3 to 5 minutes.

How To Make Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

Coconut brings a fresh tropical taste to any dish. In this recipe, we are using fresh Thai coconut to make this vegetarian coconut curry.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4tbspcoconut butter
½red onion,chopped
1clovegarlic,minced
1tsppink Himalayan salt
½tspground cumin
¼tspblack pepper
¼tspfennel seeds
¼tspground coriander
¼tspground turmeric
¼tspgaram masala
1tbspcornstarch
¼cupwater
14ozcream of coconut
4curry leaves,or more to taste
½tspchili powder
½cupcooked chickpeas
2ozbroccoli florets,chopped
4smallbaby bok choy

Instructions

Melt coconut butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir onion and garlic using a wooden spoon until translucent and lightly brown in color for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Season with salt, cumin, pepper, fennel seeds, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala; mix until well incorporated. Stir in corn starch until creamy paste forms.
Slowly mix water into the saucepan to dissolve cornstarch and thicken the mixture. Keep stirring until there are no lumps.
Stir in chickpeas and broccoli and briefly cook until just lightly crisp and tender. Mix in coconut cream and curry leaves and cover pan halfway with a lid. Simmer until liquid is reduced and has thickened for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove lid and lower heat to medium-low. Cook and stir until liquid is reduced and curry is thick and creamy for 3 to 5 minutes. Add bok choy and cook until wilted and curry has further reduced for another 3 to 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 1043.71kcal
Fat: 52.23g
Saturated Fat: 30.97g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.05g
Carbohydrates: 138.45g
Fiber: 9.51g
Sugar: 107.19g
Protein: 11.05g
Sodium: 1116.28mg
Calcium: 166.35mg
Potassium: 786.22mg
Iron: 4.21mg
Vitamin A: 75.41µg
Vitamin C: 61.31mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

To ensure the coconut butter melts evenly and doesn't burn, start by heating the pan on low heat before adding the coconut butter. Once the butter is added, stir continuously until fully melted. This will create a smooth base for sautéing the onion and garlic, enhancing the overall flavor of the curry.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Curry Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the red onion, mince the garlic, and measure out all the spices in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use canned chickpeas: Opt for canned chickpeas instead of cooking them from scratch to save time.

Pre-cut vegetables: Buy pre-cut broccoli florets and baby bok choy to reduce prep time.

One-pot cooking: Use a large saucepan to cook everything in one pot, minimizing cleanup.

Simmer while prepping: While the curry is simmering, use that time to clean up or prepare any side dishes.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe

coconut butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich texture and healthy fats, though it lacks the coconut flavor.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar texture and slightly sweeter flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter taste that complements the dish.
pink himalayan salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar mineral content and flavor profile.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy flavor.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat without altering the color of the dish.
fennel seeds - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds have a similar licorice-like flavor.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds provide a similar earthy and citrusy flavor.
ground turmeric - Substitute with saffron: Saffron offers a similar color and a slightly different but complementary flavor.
garam masala - Substitute with curry powder: Curry powder provides a similar blend of spices.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a similar thickening agent.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more depth of flavor.
cream of coconut - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a similar creamy texture and coconut flavor.
curry leaves - Substitute with bay leaves: Bay leaves offer a different but complementary flavor.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a similar color and a milder heat.
cooked chickpeas - Substitute with cooked lentils: Lentils offer a similar texture and protein content.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower provides a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
baby bok choy - Substitute with spinach: Spinach offers a similar leafy texture and cooks quickly.

Best Way to Present Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

Serve in a shallow, wide bowl: Use a pristine white, shallow bowl to allow the vibrant colors of the creamy chickpea coconut curry to stand out. The wide surface area will help in showcasing the various components of the dish.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing the cooked chickpeas and broccoli florets at the base. This creates a solid foundation and ensures that each bite has a mix of textures.
Arrange the baby bok choy artfully: Position the baby bok choy on top of the chickpeas and broccoli, fanning them out slightly to create visual interest and height.
Drizzle the curry sauce: Pour the creamy coconut curry sauce over the arranged vegetables, allowing it to pool slightly at the bottom while still coating the ingredients evenly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness by sprinkling finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the top. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma.
Add a touch of texture: Sprinkle a few toasted fennel seeds or cumin seeds on top for an added crunch and a burst of flavor.
Serve with a side of rice: Accompany the curry with a small mound of perfectly cooked basmati rice or jasmine rice on the side, presented in a separate, smaller bowl or a neat mound on the same plate.
Finish with a lime wedge: Place a small wedge of lime on the side of the bowl. This not only adds a splash of color but also allows diners to add a fresh, zesty note to their dish if they wish.

Essential Tools for Making Chickpea Coconut Curry

Large saucepan: A deep pan used for cooking the curry, allowing enough space for all ingredients to mix and simmer properly.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the surface of the saucepan.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring small quantities of spices and other ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure larger quantities of ingredients like water and coconut cream.
Chef's knife: A sharp knife for finely chopping the red onion and garlic.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface to chop the onion, garlic, and other vegetables.
Lid for saucepan: Used to cover the pan halfway, allowing the curry to simmer and thicken.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the saucepan and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Small bowl: Handy for mixing the cornstarch with water before adding it to the saucepan.
Timer: Helps keep track of cooking times to ensure each step is followed accurately.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Chickpea Coconut Curry

Allow the chickpea coconut curry to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the curry, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheat the curry in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to help reconstitute the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
Note: The texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, becoming softer than when initially prepared. To maintain a better texture, you can freeze the curry without the vegetables and add freshly cooked broccoli and bok choy when reheating.
If you plan to freeze the curry, consider cooking the vegetables slightly less initially, as they will continue to cook when reheated.
Portion the curry into individual serving sizes before freezing to make it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need for future meals.

How To Reheat Leftover Chickpea Coconut Curry

The best way to reheat leftover creamy chickpea coconut curry is to use a saucepan on the stovetop. Simply transfer the curry to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through. This method allows you to control the temperature and prevent the coconut cream from separating or curdling.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the curry in the microwave. Transfer the curry to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the curry in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the curry, as this can cause the coconut cream to separate.
If you find that the curry has thickened up too much after being refrigerated, you can add a splash of water or coconut milk to help loosen it up. Simply stir in the liquid until the desired consistency is reached.
To add some extra flavor and texture to your reheated curry, consider garnishing it with some fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or a squeeze of lime juice. These toppings can help brighten up the flavors and make the dish feel fresh again.
If you want to get creative with your leftover curry, try using it as a filling for wraps or burritos. Simply warm up some tortillas or naan bread, spoon the curry inside, and add some fresh vegetables like shredded lettuce or diced tomatoes. Roll up the wrap and enjoy a delicious and easy lunch or dinner.

Random Fact About Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

A random fact about this creamy chickpea coconut curry recipe is that it combines the rich flavors of coconut cream and garam masala, which is a blend of ground spices originating from South Asia, to create a dish that is both comforting and aromatic.

Is Making Chickpea Coconut Curry at Home Economical?

This creamy chickpea coconut curry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chickpeas, broccoli, and baby bok choy are affordable and widely available. Specialty items like coconut butter and cream of coconut might be slightly pricier but are used in small quantities. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the rich flavors and nutritional value, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Is This Creamy Curry Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy chickpea coconut curry recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like chickpeas, broccoli, and bok choy, which provide fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The use of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala not only adds flavor but also offers potential health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components. The use of coconut butter and cream of coconut contributes to a high saturated fat content, which, if consumed in excess, may increase the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant source of lean protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some or all of the coconut butter with a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil
Use light coconut milk instead of cream of coconut to reduce the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding carrots, bell peppers, or spinach, to boost the nutrient profile
Include a lean protein source, like tofu or chicken, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying
Reduce the amount of salt used and consider using low-sodium chickpeas to help control sodium intake
Serve the curry with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Chickpea Curry

This creamy chickpea coconut curry recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The coconut butter adds a rich, velvety base, while the blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala creates a warm, aromatic profile. The inclusion of broccoli and baby bok choy not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a satisfying crunch. The use of cream of coconut ensures a luscious, creamy consistency. Overall, this dish is a well-balanced, flavorful, and nutritious option that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Chutney: Mango Chutney: A tangy and sweet condiment that pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the curry. The vibrant mango flavors will add a delightful contrast to the dish, making each bite a burst of tropical goodness.

Garlic Naan: Garlic Naan: Soft, fluffy naan bread infused with aromatic garlic. This Indian staple is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the luscious coconut curry, ensuring no drop goes to waste.

Cucumber Raita: Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side dish with cool cucumber and a hint of mint. This creamy and cooling raita will balance the spices of the curry and provide a soothing contrast.

Spiced Basmati Rice: Spiced Basmati Rice: Fragrant basmati rice cooked with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. This aromatic rice will complement the curry and enhance the overall dining experience.

Roasted Cauliflower: Roasted Cauliflower: Crispy cauliflower florets roasted to perfection with a touch of olive oil and spices. The nutty and slightly charred flavor of the cauliflower will add a delightful texture and depth to the meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

Spicy Lentil and Spinach Curry: Dive into the rich and aromatic world of lentils with this spicy lentil and spinach curry. This dish combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the vibrant taste of fresh spinach. Infused with a blend of spices, this curry is perfect for a hearty and nutritious meal.

Sweet Potato and Coconut Soup: Warm up with a bowl of sweet potato and coconut soup. This creamy and comforting soup features the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes combined with the rich, tropical flavor of coconut milk. A hint of spice adds depth, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.

Mango and Black Bean Salad: Refresh your palate with a vibrant mango and black bean salad. This colorful dish combines juicy mangoes with protein-packed black beans, crisp bell peppers, and a zesty lime dressing. It's a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Cauliflower and Pea Masala: Indulge in the flavors of India with cauliflower and pea masala. This vegetarian delight features tender cauliflower florets and sweet peas simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce. The blend of spices creates a dish that's both comforting and full of flavor.

Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are a delightful way to start your meal. These vibrant, bite-sized treats are filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. The bell peppers are roasted to perfection, giving them a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness. The creamy filling provides a rich contrast to the crispness of the peppers, making each bite a burst of flavor. Serve these on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a visually appealing and tasty appetizer.

Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa: Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa is a refreshing and zesty starter that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creaminess of avocado. The addition of red onion, cilantro, and a touch of lime juice brings a vibrant and tangy flavor profile. A hint of jalapeño adds a spicy kick, making this salsa a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and spicy. Serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled shrimp to elevate your appetizer game.

Desserts:

Mango Sticky Rice: Imagine ending your meal with a luscious Mango Sticky Rice. This dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes. The sticky rice is cooked to perfection, absorbing the coconut milk to create a velvety texture. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of palm sugar syrup enhances the overall sweetness. The contrast between the warm, sticky rice and the cool, juicy mango slices makes each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Cardamom Pistachio Kulfi: For a refreshing treat, consider a Cardamom Pistachio Kulfi. This traditional Indian ice cream is infused with the aromatic flavors of cardamom and the nutty richness of pistachios. The kulfi mixture is slowly simmered to reduce and thicken, creating a dense and creamy texture. Once frozen, it is garnished with chopped pistachios and a hint of saffron, adding a touch of elegance. The subtle spice of cardamom combined with the creamy, nutty base makes this dessert a perfect end to a flavorful meal.

Why trust this Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut cream and garam masala to create a deliciously creamy and aromatic dish. The use of chickpeas and broccoli florets ensures a nutritious meal, while the curry leaves add an authentic touch. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for its balanced blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, promising a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.

Have you tried this Creamy Chickpea Coconut Curry Recipe? Share your experience and discuss any variations or tips in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use regular coconut milk instead of cream of coconut?

Yes, you can use regular coconut milk, but keep in mind that the curry might be less creamy and slightly less sweet. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you might want to simmer it a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

What can I substitute for baby bok choy?

If you can't find baby bok choy, you can use regular bok choy, spinach, or even kale. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since these greens might cook at different rates.

How spicy is this curry?

The curry has a mild to moderate level of spiciness due to the chili powder. If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even some fresh chilies.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Absolutely! This curry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and meld together, making it even more delicious. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is both vegan and gluten-free. It uses plant-based ingredients and doesn't include any gluten-containing products. Just make sure to check the labels of your spices and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.