Chickpea Curry with Rice Recipe

 Chickpea Curry with Rice is a hearty and flavorful meal that brings together tender chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato and coconut sauce, served over fluffy rice. It’s an easy, wholesome dish packed with protein, fiber, and warm flavors that make every bite comforting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this curry is satisfying on its own or paired with naan for a complete meal.

1. Cooking Time: 40 minutes

2. Serving: 4 servings

3. Ingredients:

For the Curry:

  • 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger

  • 2 teaspoons curry powder

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon turmeric

  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup coconut milk

  • Salt to taste

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice

  • 2 cups water

  • ½ teaspoon salt

4. Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.

  3. Add the spices: Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds to let the spices release their aroma.

  4. Add tomatoes and chickpeas: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chickpeas. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

  5. Add coconut milk: Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt to taste.

  6. Serve: Spoon the curry over bowls of warm rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

5. Nutrition (per serving):

  • Calories: 420

  • Carbohydrates: 60g

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 8g

  • Sugar: 6g

6. Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

  • You can add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for more nutrients.

  • If you like it spicier, add fresh chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne.

  • Replace coconut milk with plain yogurt for a lighter version.

  • Leftovers taste even better the next day—store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.