Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a creamy chickpea curry, made with aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal any day of the week. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice for a satisfying dish that will please both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon avocado oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
1½ tablespoons red curry paste
14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
1½ tablespoons soy sauce
14-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2–3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup cilantro, chopped
1½ cups jasmine rice, uncooked
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your homemade chickpea curry, a delicious and nourishing dish that brings warmth and joy to your dining table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice
Cook the jasmine rice according to the package directions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice, adding it to a pot with water, bringing it to a boil, then reducing to a simmer and covering until tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Curry Paste
In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red curry paste. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Stir in the brown sugar, full-fat coconut milk, and soy sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Keep it on the heat until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Chickpeas
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, chopped spinach, and cilantro to the skillet. Cook this mixture until the chickpeas are heated through and the spinach has wilted. For a creamier texture, use the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the chickpeas.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve the chickpea curry over the cooked jasmine rice.
Notes
– Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your desired sweetness.
– Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
– If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding more red curry paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking method where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This technique is used here to cook garlic and red curry paste, allowing their flavors to meld and become aromatic.
Thickening
Thickening involves cooking a liquid until it reduces and becomes denser. In this recipe, the combination of coconut milk and brown sugar is simmered to achieve a creamy, flavorful sauce that envelops the chickpeas and spinach.
Chopping
Chopping is the process of cutting ingredients into smaller bits. Fresh spinach and cilantro are chopped to incorporate them easily into the curry, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking a liquid just below its boiling point. It allows flavors to develop without evaporating too much liquid. The curry is simmered after adding the chickpeas and spinach to ensure everything is heated through and well combined.
Mashing
Mashing involves breaking down solid food into a softer texture. Gently mashing some chickpeas with the back of a spoon creates a creamier consistency in the curry, adding depth to the overall dish.
FAQ
Can I substitute avocado oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil in place of avocado oil.
Is there a vegan alternative to the brown sugar?
Most brown sugar is vegan; however, ensure that the brand you choose does not use bone char in its processing if you are concerned about strict vegan guidelines.
What can I use instead of red curry paste?
If you don’t have red curry paste, you can use Thai curry powder or even a mix of chili powder, garlic powder, and ginger for a similar flavor profile.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the curry.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce, as it is made without wheat.
Conclusion
This chickpea curry, enriched with the creamy texture of coconut milk and aromatic flavors from garlic and red curry paste, offers a delightful plant-based meal that is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore new flavors while enjoying a wholesome dish. Perfectly paired with jasmine rice, this recipe invites flexibility and creativity in seasoning and ingredient choices.
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