Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a dish that brings that rich, indulgent feel of classic Indian comfort food but with a delightful twist, then this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender chickpeas swimming in a luscious, buttery tomato sauce infused with fragrant spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, all finished off with a creamy touch and fresh lemon zing. This recipe is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for anyone craving the warmth of Indian flavors delivered in a simple, approachable way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe lies in using just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that combine to create a deep, layered flavor profile. From the richness of butter to the zing of fresh lemon and the aromatic spices, each ingredient plays a key role in achieving that perfect balance.

• 2 tbsp butter: Adds luscious creaminess and a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish.
• 540g chickpeas, drained and rinsed: The hearty base that absorbs all the vibrant flavors beautifully.
• 1 red onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture when sautéed until soft.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts that essential earthy aromatic kick.
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a zingy brightness to the curry.
• 1 tsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a deep, rich undertone.
• 1 tsp turmeric powder: Delivers a vibrant golden color and a gentle earthiness.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Brings smoky, slightly nutty warmth to the mix.
• 0.5 tsp ground coriander: Offers a fresh, citrusy element that complements spices well.
• 0.5 tsp chili powder or 1 red chili, diced: Adds just the right amount of heat – adjust to your taste.
• 2 tsp garam masala: The soul of the curry that layers complex fragrance and spice.
• 0.5 tsp salt: Balances and enhances the overall flavors.
• 1 x 400g tin crushed tomatoes: Creates the tangy, saucy base that holds the ingredients together.
• 125ml heavy cream or coconut milk: For that dreamy, velvety finish, dairy or vegan-friendly.
• ¼ – ½ lemon juice: Brightens the rich sauce with a refreshing touch of acidity.
• Chopped cilantro to garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal note and vibrant color on top.

How to Make Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a pan over medium heat until it’s hot and glossy. Then toss in the diced red onion and sauté it for about 5 to 6 minutes until it softens and takes on a gentle golden hue. This step builds the foundational flavor of the curry and releases the sweetness of the onions, setting the stage for all the spices to shine.

Step 2: Build the Spice Base

Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and let them cook for a minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the tomato paste and all your spices—turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Keep stirring for another 1-2 minutes so the tomato paste and spices intensify and cook off any raw edges, creating a beautifully aromatic spice blend that will coat every chickpea.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Adjust Texture

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and give everything a good stir. At this point, if you like a smooth sauce, you could blend the mixture, but leaving it chunky adds a wonderful texture to your Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe. Let this simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Simmer Chickpeas in the Sauce

Stir the drained and rinsed chickpeas directly into the sauce. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes, giving them enough time to soak up all those spices and tomatoey goodness, making each bite flavorful and tender. This slow simmer is what transforms this simple dish into a soul-satisfying meal.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Lemon

Lower the heat and gently stir in your choice of heavy cream or coconut milk, allowing the curry to become rich and silky. Then squeeze in the lemon juice, which cuts through the richness and lifts the whole dish with a bright citrus note. Once warmed through and combined, your Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe is ready for garnish and serving.

How to Serve Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro sprinkled on top is a classic finish, adding a burst of color and a fresh, herbal aroma that complements the creamy curry perfectly. You could also add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of extra cream for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try it alongside steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to add crunchy freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe in a warmed bread bowl or alongside some roasted cauliflower for a cozy, creative dinner presentation. It also makes an excellent filling for wraps or a topping on baked potatoes when you need a delicious twist on classic comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, let the curry cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, which means you can enjoy quick, flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week without any hassle.

Freezing

Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe freezes very well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it should last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and avoid refreezing to maintain the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works as well—just do it in short bursts and stir in between.

FAQs

Can I make this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The dish will still be rich and incredibly satisfying.

What type of chickpeas should I use?

Using canned chickpeas is a huge time saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is mild to medium, largely due to the chili powder or fresh chili you add. You can easily adjust the spice to your preference by adding more or less chili.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! Making the tomato and spice base ahead of time is a smart shortcut. Store it in the fridge and just add chickpeas, cream, and lemon juice when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute if I don’t have garam masala?

If you’re out of garam masala, try mixing equal parts ground cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, and coriander as a quick homemade alternative. It won’t be exact but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something special about this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Once you try it, I bet it will become one of your favorite meals to cook again and again. You deserve a dish this comforting and flavorful, so go ahead, treat yourself to a bowl of this delicious curry tonight!

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