Side dishes

Chickpea curry

⏱ 20 min🍳 10 min👤 2 pp★☆☆☆☆

Chickpea curry is an Indian-inspired recipe fairly widespread in Britain for historical and cultural reasons. You would be able to try something like it during a trip either to India or Great Britain. The recipe is quite simple and it satisfies perfectly one’s hunger and one’s need for nourishment at the same time, thanks to the combination of rice and legumes. A great dish, then, to make in abundance and serve for the whole family, provided you go easy on the spices if there are children among the diners!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
16g
Carbohydrates
95g
Fat
6g
Fiber
8g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Total time
10 minutes Active time
Serves 2 persons
★☆☆☆☆ Easy

Preparation

Put the basmati rice in a non-stick pan and cover with water to about 1/2cm above the surface of the rice. Add a pinch of salt, cover, and heat on the minimum possible flame until it boils. From the point at which it starts boiling, simmer very gently for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, without removing the lid, turn off the heat and let it stand for another 12 minutes. Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and garlic and let them sweat for 5 minutes over a low flame with a little vegetable oil. Then add the curry powder and mix it in well, followed by the tomato passata and the ketchup. Mix well and cook for another few minutes. Finally add the chickpeas, salt and paprika or red pepper to taste, cook for a few moments more and serve with the basmati rice.

Tips
Avoid adding any paprika or chilli powder and you'll find that this dish is still lovely when rather sweeter: and by so doing it will also be more acceptable to children.
Trivia
The curry is not a spice but a mix of spices that results in a distinctive and complex set of aromas and flavours - the curry!

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice

A delicious variant of chickpea curry is the one prepared with Basmati rice, a perfect accompaniment to enhance the flavors of this dish. To make it, the rice is steamed so that it remains light and fluffy, allowing the flavors of the curry to penetrate every grain. The combination of chickpeas and rice not only creates a nutritious meal but also a balanced one. You can further enrich the preparation by adding seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to give more color and variety to the dish. This version is great for those who want a complete and satisfying meal, ideal for family lunch or dinner.

Indian Chickpea Curry

The Indian chickpea curry is a preparation that encapsulates the essence of traditional cuisine from this country. It uses aromatic spices like curry and paprika, which give an intense and enveloping flavor. The original recipe calls for the use of fresh ingredients and toasted spices, which enhance the aroma and taste of the dish. In this variant, the chickpeas are cooked slowly, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the spices and other ingredients. This cooking method makes Indian chickpea curry a dish rich in flavor, ideal for those who love spicy and flavorful dishes. Served with naan bread or rice, it represents an authentic Indian culinary experience.

Light Chickpea Curry without Ketchup

For those looking for a lighter version of chickpea curry, it can be prepared without ketchup, thus reducing calories and sugar content. This light variant still maintains the characteristic flavor of the curry, thanks to the use of tomato puree and spices. It is important to use boiled and fresh chickpeas, which provide plant-based proteins and fiber, making the dish nutritious and filling. For an extra touch, fresh herbs like coriander can be added, which not only adds freshness but also enriches the dish with nutrients. This version is perfect for those who want to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Benefits of Chickpea Curry: Properties and Calories

Chickpeas are a main ingredient in curry and offer numerous health benefits. Rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and minerals, they help maintain a good nutritional balance. Additionally, they contain antioxidants and nutrients that support the immune system. Curry, with its spices, is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. A serving of chickpea curry provides about 250-300 calories per portion, depending on the ingredients used and the portions. This preparation is therefore an excellent choice for those who want a tasty and healthy meal, ideal for any time of the day.

Can Chickpea Curry be Frozen?

Chickpea curry can be frozen without any problems, making it a great option for quick and convenient meals. To freeze it best, it is advisable to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or food bags. Be sure to label the containers with the freezing date, so you can use the curry within 3 months to ensure freshness. When you are ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a pan or microwave. This preservation method helps maintain the flavors and nutrients of the dish, making it always ready for a tasty and quick dinner.