Chickpea Tikka Masala

Chickpea Tikka Masala is a delicious and hearty vegetarian twist on the classic Indian dish, offering all the rich, creamy flavors of traditional tikka masala with the added benefits of plant-based protein from chickpeas. This dish features tender chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, infused with garam masala, cumin, and turmeric, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Served over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread, Chickpea Tikka Masala is a flavorful and nutritious option that’s sure to become a favorite for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook the spices with the onion mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to release their flavors.
3. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Chickpeas and Coconut Milk: Stir in the chickpeas, making sure they are well coated with the tomato and spice mixture. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chickpeas to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the chickpeas are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve the Chickpea Tikka Masala over cooked basmati rice or with warm naan bread.

Chickpea Tikka Masala is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious, vegetarian-friendly version of a classic Indian favorite.