Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of warm spices wafted through the air, transporting me straight to the bustling streets of India. This Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe is my go-to for hectic weeknights when I crave those rich, comforting flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Featuring tender chickpeas bathed in a luscious tomato sauce, this easy vegetarian curry offers a delightful twist on traditional butter chicken. Not only can you whip it up in just 30 minutes, but it’s also a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze! Each bite is a warm hug that brings the family together, perfect for pairing with fluffy rice or garlic naan. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into how to bring this crowd-pleaser to your table! Why Choose Butter Chickpeas Tonight? Simplicity: This one-pan meal requires minimal prep and cooking time, making dinnertime stress a thing of the past. Rich Flavor: Each bite is packed with a harmonious blend of spices that creates an unforgettable taste experience reminiscent of traditional butter chicken. Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, Butter Chickpeas is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Healthy Twist: Loaded with protein and fiber, this vegetarian dish is not only delicious but also a nutritious alternative to takeout. Versatile: Customize your Butter Chickpeas by adding greens like spinach or kale, or pairing it with fragrant basmati rice or warm garlic naan for a complete meal. Ready to elevate your dinner routine? You might also love my quick and comforting Butter Chicken Comfort recipe for another delightful twist! Butter Chickpeas Ingredients • Dive into the deliciousness with these simple, wholesome ingredients for your Butter Chickpeas! For the Base Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Red Onion (1, diced) – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; yellow onion works too. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances aroma and flavor; always opt for fresh garlic. Fresh Ginger (1 tbsp, grated) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can be a suitable substitute. For the Chickpeas Chickpeas (540g, drained and rinsed) – The main protein source; dried chickpeas can be used if soaked and cooked until tender. Crushed Tomatoes (1 x 400g tin) – Forms the base of the sauce, giving acidity and sweetness. For the Spices Tomato Paste (1 tsp) – Concentrates the tomato flavor and color. Turmeric Powder (1 tsp) – Adds earthiness and vibrant color; beautifully complements the spices. Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Contributes a nutty, warming flavor that enhances the dish. Ground Coriander (0.5 tsp) – Provides sweetness with a hint of citrus. Chili Powder (0.5 tsp) or Fresh Red Chili (1, diced) – Adds mild heat; adjust to taste. Garam Masala (2 tsp) – A blend of spices for complex, rich flavor. Salt (0.5 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor profile. For Creaminess Heavy Cream (125ml) or Coconut Milk – Adds a luxuriously creamy texture; coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative. For Finishing Touches Lemon Juice (¼ – ½) – Brightens and balances the flavors beautifully. Chopped Cilantro – Adds freshness and a delightful garnish. Get ready to enjoy an irresistible vegetarian feast with these Butter Chickpeas ingredients! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Chickpeas Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add the diced red onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step sets a flavorful foundation for your Butter Chickpeas, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma. Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Be attentive to avoid burning the garlic; it should turn golden, not brown. The combination of these ingredients will bring depth and warmth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Butter Chickpeas. Step 3: Toast the Spices Mix in the tomato paste, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the spices are fragrant and well incorporated. This toasting step elevates the spices, releasing essential oils that will enrich your Butter Chickpeas. Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the aromatics and spices. If desired, blend the sauce until smooth for a creamier Butter Chickpeas. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully as the sauce thickens and deepens in color. Step 5: Add Chickpeas and Simmer Introduce the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan, stirring them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the rich flavors while the sauce thickens. You want the chickpeas to be tender and the sauce luxuriously creamy. Step 6: Finish with Creaminess Lower the heat further and stir in 125ml of heavy cream or coconut milk along with the lemon juice. Heat gently for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine. The addition of cream adds a luxurious texture, making your Butter Chickpeas rich and satisfying. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Once heated through, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve your Butter Chickpeas warm, ideally paired with fluffy basmati rice or garlic naan. Enjoy the delightful combination of rich flavors that make this vegetarian dish truly comforting and irresistible! Make Ahead Options These Butter Chickpeas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, garlic, and ginger up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the spice blend (turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt) and store it for up to 3 days. On the day you plan to serve, just sauté the aromatics, toss in the prepped spice mix and crushed tomatoes, then add the chickpeas. Finally, stir in the cream or coconut milk and heat until warm to enjoy a vibrant and richly flavored dish, just as delicious as if made fresh! What to Serve with Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas Cozy up with vibrant sides that perfectly complement the rich, creamy goodness of this curry dish. Fluffy Basmati Rice: The light, fragrant grains soak up the luscious sauce, creating a satisfying combination that warms the soul. Garlic Naan: This soft, pillowy bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the Butter Chickpeas, enhancing the meal’s comfort factor. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side with diced cucumber, mint, and spices offers a cooling contrast to the curry’s warmth. This balance lifts the flavors, making each bite even more delightful! Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs bring a colorful canvas to your plate, adding crunchy texture and nutritional balance to your meal. Chickpea Salad: A zesty, citrusy salad made with chickpeas, diced veggies, and a lemon dressing creates a light and refreshing side that’s always a hit. Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy mango chutney serves as a flavorful condiment, enhancing the flavors of the Butter Chickpeas while adding an exciting twist. Masala Chai: Sip on a warm cup of traditional spiced tea to round off your meal, infusing warming spices that echo the curry’s flavors. Cardamom Rice Pudding: For a sweet finish, enjoy creamy rice pudding infused with cardamom that beautifully mirrors the spices in your main dish. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled beverage, like fresh lemonade or iced tea, brings a refreshing contrast to this comforting dish, perfect for those warmer evenings. Butter Chickpeas Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore different twists and versions of this comforting dish that can suit your taste and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Substitute traditional butter and heavy cream with vegan butter and coconut milk for a scrumptious dairy-free version. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, toss in some diced jalapeño or serrano peppers while sautéing the onions. Nutty Flavor: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter like almond or cashew for added creaminess and a rich, nutty taste. Green Twist: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the simmering stage for extra nutrition and color. Lentils Instead: Swap chickpeas for cooked lentils if you want a different texture—green du Puy or red lentils work well. Curry Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of curry powder along with the spices for a completely different flavor profile. Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Tropical Touch: Enhance the tropical vibes by tossing in some diced pineapple or mango towards the end for sweetness. Don’t forget, any leftovers can be paired beautifully with my comforting Garlic Butter Steak or served alongside a refreshing cucumber raita for balance. Enjoy experimenting with your Butter Chickpeas! Helpful Tricks for Butter Chickpeas Creaminess Factor: For a luxuriously creamy sauce, don’t skip blending the crushed tomatoes. This step creates that velvety texture we all love. Flavor Boost: Let your Butter Chickpeas sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to develop further, making every bite even more delicious. Spice Control: Adjust the spice levels according to personal preference. Start with less chili powder and add more if you like a bit of kick in your Butter Chickpeas. Freshness Matters: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. Dried alternatives won’t deliver the same aromatic punch that enhances this dish. Greens Upgrade: Boost the nutrition by tossing in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering. It’s a simple way to add color and goodness! How to Store and Freeze Butter Chickpeas Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the Butter Chickpeas to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, allowing some space for expansion. Thawing: To enjoy your Butter Chickpeas, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Butter Chickpeas Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for Butter Chickpeas? Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure your onions have a firm, smooth skin with no bruises. Look for chickpeas that are plump and free of dark spots. If using canned chickpeas, choose ones with a clear expiration date. For fresh ginger and garlic, opt for bulbs that feel heavy and aromatic; this guarantees freshness and flavor in your dish. How should I store leftover Butter Chickpeas? Very! Store your Butter Chickpeas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain the quality. Reheat gently on the stove to bring back the original flavor and creaminess. Can I freeze Butter Chickpeas? Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, portion the Butter Chickpeas into freezer-safe containers, ensuring not to fill them to the brim to allow for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. What should I do if my Butter Chickpeas are too thick? No worries! If your Butter Chickpeas have thickened too much during cooking, simply add a little warm water or coconut milk to the pan while stirring. This will loosen the sauce back to your desired consistency. Keep in mind that gently reheating over low heat works best to prevent burning. Are Butter Chickpeas safe for those with allergies? Absolutely, but be cautious! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy if you use heavy cream, so I recommend substituting with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. If anyone at your table has nut allergies, verify that your chosen coconut milk is nut-free. As always, check the labels to ensure all ingredients are safe for anyone with allergies. How can I make this recipe even healthier? The more the merrier! To boost the nutritional value, consider adding fresh spinach or kale during the simmering process. You can also use dried chickpeas for a more sustainable approach—just remember to soak and cook them until tender before incorporating them into your dish! Mouthwatering Butter Chickpeas – Your New Favorite Comfort Food This Butter Chickpeas recipe is a quick and creamy vegetarian dish, perfect for comfort food lovers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons butter Substitute vegan butter for a dairy-free version.1 red onion, diced Yellow onion works too.2 cloves garlic, minced Always opt for fresh garlic.1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated Ground ginger can be a substitute.For the Chickpeas540 g chickpeas, drained and rinsed Dried chickpeas can be used if soaked and cooked.1 400g tin crushed tomatoesFor the Spices1 teaspoon tomato paste1 teaspoon turmeric powder1 teaspoon ground cumin0.5 teaspoon ground coriander0.5 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste.2 teaspoons garam masala0.5 teaspoon saltFor Creaminess125 ml heavy cream Coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative.For Finishing Touches0.25 - 0.5 lemon juicechopped cilantro For garnish. Equipment Large skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter ChickpeasIn a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add the diced red onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft.Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.Mix in the tomato paste, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the spices are fragrant.Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the aromatics and spices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.Introduce the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan, stirring them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10 minutes.Lower the heat further and stir in 125ml of heavy cream or coconut milk along with the lemon juice. Heat gently for another 2-3 minutes.Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesFor a luxuriously creamy sauce, blend the crushed tomatoes. Let sit for a few hours for enhanced flavor. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
