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Creamy Chickpea Tikka Masala

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A rich and spiced Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chickpeas simmered in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce with aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
  • Optional: Plain yogurt or vegan yogurt for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them sizzle until fragrant and start to pop, about 30 seconds.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and soft, about 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute.
  3. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper if using. Stir constantly and toast the spices for about 2 minutes.
  4. Add 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color, about 10-12 minutes.
  5. Add the drained chickpeas and stir to coat with the sauce. Pour in 1/2 cup coconut cream and mix thoroughly. Simmer gently for 8 minutes, allowing chickpeas to soak up the flavors. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Stir in optional 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon sugar or honey to balance acidity. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite grain.

Notes

Blooming whole spices in oil is essential for deep flavor. Use fresh ginger and garlic for best taste. Keep heat medium to avoid burning spices. Rinsing canned chickpeas reduces canned taste and improves texture. For a smoother sauce, blend before adding chickpeas. Leftovers taste better after a day and freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chickpea tikka masala, creamy chickpea curry, vegan tikka masala, easy Indian dinner, plant-based curry, coconut cream curry

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-chickpea-tikka-masala-recipe-easy-homemade-rich-spiced-dinner/