Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe

If you are searching for a heartwarming, creamy, and spiced dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table, look no further than Indian Butter Chickpeas. This dish is a delightful fusion of tender chickpeas simmered in a luscious tomato and butter-infused sauce, enriched with fragrant spices and a touch of cream. The result is a comforting curry that feels indulgent yet easy to make, perfect for cozy nights or impressing friends with a vegetarian favorite bursting with traditional Indian flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Indian Butter Chickpeas lies in its simple ingredients that each bring a unique layer of flavor, texture, and richness to the dish. From the creamy butter and tangy tomatoes to the warming spices and fresh cilantro, every element plays a crucial role in crafting its irresistible taste.

• Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and a velvety texture that makes the sauce truly indulgent.
• Chickpeas (540g, drained and rinsed): The star of the dish, providing protein and a hearty bite.
• Red onion (1, diced): Offers a sweet and slightly sharp base once sautéed gently.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Brings an aromatic depth that complements the spices beautifully.
• Fresh ginger (1 tbsp, grated): Adds a warm, zesty kick that brightens the curry.
• Tomato paste (1 tsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor and balances the spices.
• Turmeric powder (1 tsp): Imparts a lovely golden hue and subtle earthiness.
• Ground cumin (1 tsp): Provides a nutty, smoky undertone.
• Ground coriander (0.5 tsp): Adds floral, citrus notes enhancing complexity.
• Chili powder or red chili (0.5 tsp or 1 diced): Controls the heat for your preferred spice level.
• Garam masala (2 tsp): A fragrant spice blend that ties all flavors together perfectly.
• Salt (0.5 tsp): Essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Crushed tomatoes (1 x 400g tin): Creates a tangy, juicy base for the sauce.
• Heavy cream or coconut milk (125ml): Provides creaminess and a subtle sweetness to enhance the curry.
• Lemon juice (¼ to ½): A bright finishing touch that lifts the dish.
• Chopped cilantro (to garnish): Fresh and fragrant, adding a pop of green and flavor contrast.

How to Make Indian Butter Chickpeas

Step 1: Sauté Onions in Butter

Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat until melted. Add the diced red onion and sauté gently for 5 to 6 minutes until soft and translucent. This slow cooking draws out the onions’ natural sweetness, forming the flavorful base that makes the sauce irresistible.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, Tomato Paste, and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook for about one minute to let their aromas release fully. Then, add the tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili, garam masala, and salt. Stir continuously for a couple of minutes to toast the spices slightly, awakening their rich depth and creating layers of taste in the sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate Crushed Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. You have the option to blend this sauce now if you prefer a silky smooth texture, or keep it chunky for a heartier feel. Either way, the tangy tomato base complements the spices beautifully—the choice is yours!

Step 4: Simmer Chickpeas in Sauce

Add the drained chickpeas directly into the sauce and let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This step allows the chickpeas to soak up all those lovely spices and tomato flavors, turning them tender and infused with warmth.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Lemon Juice

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk along with the fresh lemon juice. Warm through carefully without boiling to keep the cream’s silky richness intact. This final touch balances the spice, creaminess, and brightness before you sprinkle fresh cilantro on top to complete this comforting curry.

How to Serve Indian Butter Chickpeas

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro chopped finely and sprinkled generously on top adds a lively finish and a burst of herbal flavor that balances the creamy curry wonderfully. You might also consider a dollop of yogurt or a pinch of garam masala for an extra flair.

Side Dishes

Indian Butter Chickpeas pairs perfectly with warm naan bread to scoop up every bit of the sauce, or fluffy basmati rice to soak up the rich curry juices. For a vibrant plate, add a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad to contrast the warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Indian Butter Chickpeas in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bell peppers for festive occasions. Alternatively, layered with rice in a clear bowl or jar, it makes a visually appealing lunchbox option. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, Indian Butter Chickpeas can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring it’s cooled before sealing. You can keep it frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for a ready-to-go meal on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the curry overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to preserve the creamy texture. Add a splash of water or cream if it seems too thick.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas for Indian Butter Chickpeas?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe, just be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce any excess sodium and preserve the clean flavors.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply swap out butter for coconut oil or vegan butter and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. This keeps the dish rich and creamy while remaining fully plant-based.

How spicy is Indian Butter Chickpeas?

The recipe allows you to control the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or fresh chili. You can make it mild or moderately spicy to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Indian Butter Chickpeas tastes wonderful the next day as flavors deepen. It’s ideal for meal prepping or entertaining guests with minimal last-minute effort.

What can I serve instead of rice or naan?

Feel free to pair Indian Butter Chickpeas with quinoa for a protein boost, or cauliflower rice if you want a low-carb alternative. It also goes well with crusty bread or even over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.

Final Thoughts

Indian Butter Chickpeas is one of those magical dishes that brings warmth, comfort, and vibrant flavors together in one pot. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned fan, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on any night but impressive enough to share at your next dinner party. Go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you for this creamy, spiced, utterly delicious delight!

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