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Indian Butter Chickpeas

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Indian butter chickpeas are a vegetarian twist on butter chicken, featuring hearty chickpeas simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. This one-pan dish is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for a cozy, meatless meal.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee (or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Melt butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  5. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add chickpeas, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat and stir in cream or coconut milk. Cook until warmed through and creamy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Use coconut milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Add greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
  • Crushed tomatoes give a chunkier texture if preferred.
  • Store in fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of water or cream if sauce thickens.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/indian-butter-chickpeas/