Curried Chickpea & Coconut Rice
Warming Spices, Creamy Coconut, and Nutritious Chickpeas
Inspired by Indian cuisine, this Fragrant Curried Chickpea & Coconut Rice dish combines earthy chickpeas, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut rice for a comforting, nutritious meal. Packed with flavor, it’s a satisfying vegan dish perfect for any occasion.
Fragrant Curried Chickpea & Coconut Rice – Vegan Curry Recipe with Coconut Rice and Chickpeas
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time30 minutes
Total time40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Coconut Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 small cinnamon stick, (optional)
- 2-3 whole cloves garlic, (optional)
For the Curried Chickpeas:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, (for serving)
Instructions:
- 1
Cook the Coconut Rice:
- In a medium pot, combine the basmati rice, coconut milk, water, olive oil, salt, cinnamon stick, and cloves (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves before serving.
- 2
Make the Curried Chickpeas:
- While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
- Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 3
Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the coconut rice in bowls, topped with the curried chickpeas. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Equipment
- Medium pot
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon and spatula
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Substitutions:
- For a non-vegan version, you can replace the coconut milk with regular milk or cream.
- If you don’t have basmati rice, jasmine rice or brown rice can work as alternatives, though the cooking time may vary.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas to the curried chickpeas for added nutrition and texture.
Pro Tips:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- To intensify the spices, you can toast the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric in the pan for 1-2 minutes before adding the liquids.
- If you like a little heat, add some chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the curried chickpeas.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen chickpeas?
- Yes! If using frozen chickpeas, make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, this curry can be made in advance. Store the rice and chickpea curry separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Store the leftover curry and rice in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the rice and curry separately or warm them on the stove over low heat.
Nutrition
| Calories | 400 |
| Carbohydrates | 62g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 8g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Fragrant Curried Chickpea & Coconut Rice is a dish inspired by the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, blending the earthiness of chickpeas with the creamy richness of coconut milk. Curry, a key feature of Indian cooking, has evolved into a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary preferences. This vegan curry recipe showcases the perfect marriage of spices, coconut rice, and chickpeas, offering a nutritious, hearty meal with a comforting aroma.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The true artistry of this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The curried chickpeas are spiced with cumin, turmeric, and curry powder, which, when combined with the tangy tomatoes, create a rich and fragrant sauce. The coconut rice serves as a soft and creamy base, complementing the spiciness of the curry. Cooking the rice in coconut milk adds a layer of richness that ties everything together, making it the perfect pairing for the curry.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This healthy vegan curry is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of coconut rice and chickpeas provides a wholesome balance of carbs, fiber, and protein, making it a perfect option for those seeking a quick curry meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Moreover, the one-pot cooking method makes it a convenient, hassle-free dinner for busy weeknights.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Coconut Rice: Fragrant basmati rice cooked in creamy coconut milk, giving it a rich, tropical flavor.
- Curried Chickpeas: Chickpeas simmered in a flavorful curry sauce made with spices like cumin, curry powder, and turmeric, along with tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Toppings: Fresh cilantro and lime wedges add brightness and freshness to the dish.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Dinner: A perfect meal for busy evenings when you need something quick, healthy, and filling.
- Vegan and vegetarian meals: A hearty, plant-based option that’s satisfying and nutritious.
- One-pot meal: Easy to clean up with minimal effort.
- Meal prep: Ideal for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This recipe is perfect because it’s simple yet bursting with bold flavors. The curried chickpeas are deliciously spiced and paired with rich, creamy coconut rice, creating the ideal balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for an Indian chickpea curry, a vegetarian curry bowl, or a quick curry meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion!
