Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the fragrant spices danced in the air, invoking memories of vibrant Indian markets. This is where my love for simple, comforting dishes like Butter Chickpeas began. This creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe offers a delightful vegetarian twist on the classic butter chicken, bringing you a hearty, rich tomato sauce that elevates chickpeas to star status. With just 30 minutes of your time, it’s a perfect choice for weeknight meals when you crave something both satisfying and quick. Not only does this dish promise an explosion of comforting flavors, but it’s also easily customizable for a dairy-free option, making it delightful for everyone at the table. Ready to whip up this luscious curry and savor the taste of home-cooked goodness? Let’s dive in! Why Choose This Butter Chickpeas Recipe? Flavor Explosion: Dive into the creamy richness of butter chickpeas, featuring a blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds and bring a smile to your face. 30-Minute Wonder: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Versatile Pairing: Serve it with fluffy basmati rice, warm garlic naan, or a refreshing cucumber raita for a complete experience. Dairy-Free Option: Easily swap the heavy cream for coconut milk to cater to vegan diets without sacrificing flavor. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Ideal for impressing family and friends, this dish transforms humble chickpeas into a sumptuous feast that everyone will love. Get ready for a flavor-packed culinary adventure, reminiscent of my favorite recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken or the delightful Honey Butter Cornbread. Butter Chickpeas Ingredients Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful buttery dish! For the Sauce Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Red Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onion works in a pinch. Garlic (2 cloves) – Enhances flavor and aroma; can be replaced with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable. Fresh Ginger (1 tbsp, grated) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can be used as an alternative. Tomato Paste (1 tsp) – Intensifies the tomato flavor. For the Spices Turmeric Powder (1 tsp) – Adds color and a mild earthiness. Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Provides a warm, earthy flavor. Ground Coriander (0.5 tsp) – Adds a citrusy, herbal note. Chili Powder (0.5 tsp or 1 red chili, diced) – Adds mild heat; adjust to taste. Garam Masala (2 tsp) – A spice blend that contributes essential warm flavors. Salt (0.5 tsp) – Enhances all flavors. For the Main Ingredients Chickpeas – The main protein source; use canned for ease or soak and cook dried chickpeas if preferred. Crushed Tomatoes (1 x 400g tin) – Base of the sauce, providing acidity and body; fresh tomatoes can be blended as a substitute. For the Creaminess Heavy Cream (125ml) or Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess to the curry; choose coconut milk for a vegan option. Lemon Juice (¼ – ½) – Brightens the dish; adjust to taste. For Garnishing Chopped Cilantro – For garnish and added freshness; sprinkle generously for a burst of taste. Each bite of these butter chickpeas will take you on a flavorful journey, capturing the heart of traditional Indian cuisine right in your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Chickpeas Step 1: Sauté Aromatics In a medium pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add one diced red onion and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial, as the softened onion will lay the foundation for the rich flavors in your Butter Chickpeas. Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the delicious Butter Chickpeas to come, as these ingredients enhance the overall depth of flavor. Step 3: Incorporate Spices Dissolve 1 teaspoon of tomato paste into the mixture, followed by 1 teaspoon each of turmeric powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander, alongside 0.5 teaspoon of chili powder and 2 teaspoons of garam masala. Cook this spicy mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices, which will create a wonderfully aromatic paste for your Butter Chickpeas. Step 4: Add Crushed Tomatoes Pour in one 400g tin of crushed tomatoes into the pan, stirring well to combine everything. For a smoother texture, you can blend this mixture until velvety. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, which helps meld the flavors together and create a luscious base for your chickpeas. Step 5: Simmer with Chickpeas Add in one can of drained chickpeas, stirring them into the sauce. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the chickpeas will absorb the spiced sauce, becoming infused with rich flavors and bringing your Butter Chickpeas to life. Step 6: Stir in Creaminess Lower the heat to low and gently mix in 125ml of heavy cream or coconut milk, along with the juice of ¼ to ½ lemon to brighten the dish. Stir until the sauce is well combined and warmed through, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures a creamy consistency, elevating your Butter Chickpeas even further. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Finally, remove the pan from heat and garnish your Butter Chickpeas with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice, with warm naan, or alongside a refreshing cucumber raita. Enjoy the explosion of comforting flavors that this dish brings to your table! Expert Tips for Butter Chickpeas Spice Balance: Adjust the chili powder to control the heat level; start small and taste as you go to find your perfect spice balance. Cream Alternatives: For a lighter dish, use less cream or coconut milk. You can add vegetable broth instead for a thinner, lighter sauce. Flavor Depth: Allow the Butter Chickpeas to cool and sit for a few hours or overnight; the flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day. Chickpea Choice: If using dried chickpeas, ensure they are well-cooked and tender before adding them to the sauce for the best texture in your Butter Chickpeas. Smooth Sauce: Blend the tomato mixture if you prefer a creamy, smooth sauce; this can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home! Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the chopped cilantro; it adds a bright freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. What to Serve with Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas With its rich, aromatic flavors and creamy texture, this dish invites a world of delectable accompaniments that elevate your dining experience. Fluffy Basmati Rice: The light grains soak up the velvety sauce, creating a harmonious balance in each bite. Garlic Naan: Soft and warm, this bread is perfect for scooping up buttery chickpeas while adding a hint of garlic fragrance to your meal. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side cuts through the spiciness of the dish and adds a refreshing crunch. Spicy Pickles: A small side of tangy Indian pickles amplifies the flavors, making each mouthful even more exciting. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned with spices, this vegetable side offers a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the Butter Chickpeas beautifully. Mango Chutney: Its sweet and tangy profile enhances your palate, providing a delightful contrast to the curry’s richness. Samosas: These flaky pastry snacks filled with spiced potatoes or peas make for a delightful starter before diving into your main course. Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai rounds out the meal with its aromatic spices, adding a comforting finish to your dining experience. Butter Chickpeas Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful suggestions that will add an exciting spin to your Butter Chickpeas! Vegetable Boost: Add fresh spinach or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrition and vibrant colors. Just toss them in during the simmering process! Lentil Swap: Replace chickpeas with cooked lentils for a different texture and flavor. This simple change can create a unique twist on the classic dish. Extra Spice: Kick up the heat by adding extra fresh chilis or increasing the chili powder. Adjust to your taste for those who love a fiery kick! Creamy Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream instead of heavy cream or coconut milk for a tangy and nutty flavor boost. Both options lend a delicious creaminess without losing richness. Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like mint or basil just before serving for an aromatic twist that brightens each bite. The fresh notes will elevate your dish beautifully. Nutfree Version: If you want to avoid the coconut, feel free to use almond milk as a creamy base! It brings a delightful, subtle nuttiness. Tropical Twist: For a unique flavor profile, try adding a small amount of pineapple or mango puree to the sauce. This unexpected sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the spices. Sauce Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by blending some of the chickpeas into the sauce for a creamier texture. This way, you get a luscious consistency that envelops each chickpea. Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and let the comforting flavors of this dish unite everyone at your table! If you’re in the mood for something extra special, consider pairing it with my Garlic Butter Salmon or the deliciously rich Browned Butter Toffee Cookies for dessert. Happy cooking! Storage Tips for Butter Chickpeas Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures that your delicious butter chickpeas retain their flavors and freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the butter chickpeas for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through for the best taste. Reheating: If you find the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or vegetable broth while reheating to restore that creamy texture. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Indian Butter Chickpeas are a fantastic choice for make-ahead meal prep! You can prepare the base sauce, including the sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, and spices, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chickpeas can be added just before serving for fresh flavor, or you can mix them in and store the entire dish for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure the sauce cools completely before refrigerating, and reheat gently on the stove to preserve the creaminess. When ready to serve, stir in the cream or coconut milk, and you’ve got a delightful, homemade meal waiting to be enjoyed! Butter Chickpeas Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chickpeas for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re opting for canned chickpeas, look for those without added salt or preservatives for the best flavor. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the sauce. A good rule of thumb is 1 cup of dried chickpeas yields about 2.5 cups cooked. What’s the best way to store leftover butter chickpeas? Very! Store your leftover butter chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess if necessary. Can I freeze butter chickpeas, and how do I do it? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the butter chickpeas to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth or water if the consistency is too thick. What can I do if my butter chickpeas are too spicy? No worries! If you find the dish too spicy, you can balance the heat by stirring in more coconut milk or cream to mellow the flavors. Alternatively, adding a dash of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice can help tone down the heat beautifully. Are butter chickpeas safe for pets? Very! The ingredients in butter chickpeas are generally safe for pets. However, avoid giving them any spicy components (like chili powder) and stick to plain chickpeas if sharing with your furry friends. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to their diet! How can I customize this recipe to fit a vegan diet? Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with vegan butter and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk. This maintains the luscious creamy texture while keeping the dish completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for everyone at your table. Creamy Butter Chickpeas That Will Ignite Your Taste Buds This Butter Chickpeas recipe offers a delicious vegan twist on classic butter chicken, featuring a rich coconut milk and tomato sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce2 tbsp Butter substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version1 Red Onion can use yellow onion in a pinch2 cloves Garlic can replace with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable1 tbsp Fresh Ginger grated; ground ginger can be used as an alternative1 tsp Tomato Paste intensifies the tomato flavorFor the Spices1 tsp Turmeric Powder adds color and mild earthiness1 tsp Ground Cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor0.5 tsp Ground Coriander adds a citrusy, herbal note0.5 tsp Chili Powder adjust to taste2 tsp Garam Masala a spice blend that contributes essential warm flavors0.5 tsp Salt enhances all flavorsFor the Main Ingredients1 can Chickpeas use canned for ease or soak and cook dried chickpeas1 tin Crushed Tomatoes 400gFor the Creaminess125 ml Heavy Cream or coconut milk for a vegan option¼ - ½ lemon Lemon Juice adjust to tasteFor GarnishingChopped Cilantro for garnish and added freshness Equipment medium pan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter ChickpeasIn a medium pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add one diced red onion and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until they're fragrant.Dissolve 1 teaspoon of tomato paste into the mixture, followed by 1 teaspoon each of turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, alongside 0.5 teaspoon of chili powder and 2 teaspoons of garam masala. Cook this spicy mixture for 1-2 minutes.Pour in one 400g tin of crushed tomatoes into the pan, stirring well to combine everything. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.Add in one can of drained chickpeas, stirring them into the sauce. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes.Lower the heat to low and gently mix in 125ml of heavy cream or coconut milk, along with the juice of ¼ to ½ lemon. Stir until the sauce is well combined and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.Finally, remove the pan from heat and garnish your Butter Chickpeas with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice, with warm naan, or alongside a refreshing cucumber raita. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 4mg NotesAllow the Butter Chickpeas to cool and sit for a few hours or overnight; the flavors will deepen. Adjust the chili powder to control the heat level. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
