Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice Recipe
This Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice is a vibrant, comforting, and satisfying meal that brings the rich flavors of Indian-inspired spices into your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Featured on Everyday Excellent with Vanessa Gianfrancesco, this recipe combines tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and a creamy tomato base, served alongside fluffy basmati rice and warm, charred naan.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, this dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas. Its bold, layered flavors come together quickly, making it a convenient yet impressive meal for family and friends.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for this Chickpea Curry comes from traditional Indian and South Asian cuisine, where legumes and aromatic spices create rich, hearty dishes without meat. Chickpeas, with their nutty flavor and satisfying texture, form the protein-packed base, while garam masala, chili powder, and fresh ginger infuse the curry with warmth and complexity.
Pairing the curry with basmati rice allows the grains to soak up the sauce and complement the spices, while naan adds a soft, pillowy component perfect for scooping. The combination of chickpeas, spices, and coconut or vegetable stock creates a comforting dish reminiscent of restaurant-quality curry but achievable at home with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
- 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 cube frozen chopped ginger
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable stock, divided
- 1 tbsp garam masala powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 4 garlic and herb naan
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Methods
- Wash basmati rice until water runs clear. Add basmati rice, 2 cups vegetable stock, and a pinch of salt to a pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Cover with a lid, turn heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes. Take off heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve.
- Meanwhile, add oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger and cook for 2 minutes. Add garam masala and chili powder and cook, stirring to toast the spices, for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable stock, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast naan on a grill pan over medium high heat or over an open flame until nicely charred.
- Garnish curry with cilantro and serve with basmati rice, naan, and lime wedges.
Serving Suggestions
This Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice is perfect as a family-friendly dinner or casual gathering dish. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or roasted vegetables. The charred naan is ideal for scooping up the curry, but you can also serve it with steamed greens or roasted cauliflower to add extra color and nutrients.
For a heartier version, stir in coconut milk at the end of cooking to create a creamier curry. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. Garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving to refresh the flavors.
This dish is also great for meal prep: portion curry into individual containers with rice for a ready-to-go vegan lunch or quick weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice delivers bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and effortless preparation in under 30 minutes. Its combination of chickpeas, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables creates a balanced, protein-rich vegan meal that appeals to both health-conscious eaters and flavor seekers.
The fluffy basmati rice perfectly absorbs the curry sauce, while garlic and herb naan adds a soft, pillowy component that makes every bite satisfying. With garnishes of cilantro and lime wedges, the dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Whether you are cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this Chickpea Curry is a reliable, versatile, and crowd-pleasing option. Its quick cooking time, bold spices, and plant-based protein make it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying dinner.
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