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Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe

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4.3 from 72 reviews

A flavorful and creamy Chickpea Tikka Masala made with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and full-fat coconut milk. This comforting vegetarian Indian-inspired dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop, perfect for a hearty weeknight meal. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (divided)
  • 1 yellow or white onion (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
  • 2 cans (15.5 oz each) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can (28 oz) tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional; or to taste)
  • fresh squeeze lime juice (optional)
  • fresh chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • rice and/or naan (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the coconut milk over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
  2. Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, minced ginger, tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Combine Chickpeas and Sauce: Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes), and the remaining coconut milk to the skillet. Stir everything well to combine thoroughly.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chickpea tikka masala and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt and/or pepper to suit your preference.
  6. Optional Flavor Enhancements: For added depth and balance, drizzle with pure maple syrup or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Stir gently to incorporate.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Serve your chickpea tikka masala hot over cooked rice or alongside warm naan bread for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • Using full-fat coconut milk gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture, but you can use light coconut milk for a lower-fat option.
  • Adjust the chili powder and cayenne according to your preferred spice level.
  • The optional maple syrup helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes with a hint of sweetness.
  • Lime juice adds freshness and brightness to the dish.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste great reheated.
  • For a gluten-free meal, ensure your naan is gluten-free or omit it and serve with rice only.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/chickpea-tikka-masala-recipe/