Introduction
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of a comforting tikka curry packed with nutritious ingredients. This simple recipe utilizes frozen vegetables and pantry staples, making it easy to prepare on busy nights. It’s a wholesome meal that’s perfect for the whole family, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil
– 250g frozen chopped onion
– 400g frozen sweet potato chunks
– 4 tablespoons tikka spice paste
– 400g can chickpeas
– 400g can quality plum tomatoes
– 300g bag sliced spring greens
To serve:
– 4 tablespoons natural yogurt or non-dairy alternative
– Cooked rice or naan
– Optional: mango chutney
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Use this delicious and straightforward recipe for a filling meal that combines wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the layers of flavor and spice with every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large, wide, shallow pan over high heat. Add the frozen chopped onion and sweet potato chunks. Cook for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Stir in the tikka spice paste and continue cooking for 10 minutes, scraping up any bits stuck to the base of the pan.
Step 3: Incorporate Chickpeas
Add the chickpeas, including their liquid, and mash a few with a fork.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Add the plum tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon, and pour in one can’s worth of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens.
Step 5: Add Spring Greens
Push the curry to one side of the pan. Add the sliced spring greens to the empty side, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
Step 6: Combine Greens with Curry
Stir half of the wilted greens into the curry.
Step 7: Serve
Divide the curry and remaining greens between warm plates. Serve with cooked rice or warm naan, a dollop of natural yogurt or its alternative, and mango chutney if desired.
Notes
Preparation Tip
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with rice or naan. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more tikka spice paste if desired.
Storage Advice
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Stir-Frying
Drizzle olive oil in a pan and cook frozen chopped onions and sweet potato chunks over high heat to quickly soften and infuse flavors.
Scraping
While cooking, scrape the base of the pan to release any bits that enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
Mashing
Mash a few chickpeas with a fork to add creaminess and thicken the curry.
Simmering
Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Wilting
Add sliced spring greens to the pan and cover to steam, wilting them to retain their color and nutrients.
Dividing
Portion the curry and greens onto plates for an appealing presentation, ensuring each serving is balanced.
FAQ
Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh onions; just chop and sauté them until they become translucent before adding the sweet potatoes.
What can I substitute for tikka spice paste?
You can use a combination of curry powder, cumin, and paprika if tikka spice paste is unavailable.
Is there an alternative to chickpeas?
You can substitute chickpeas with any other beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, for a similar texture.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chili powder or fresh chili to the tikka spice paste for added heat.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers according to your preference.
Conclusion
This flavorful tikka-inspired curry is a delightful combination of sweet potato, chickpeas, and greens, creating a hearty and nutritious dish. Perfect for any night of the week, it offers warmth and satisfaction, especially when served with rice or naan. The addition of yogurt or a non-dairy alternative adds a creamy touch, while mango chutney gives a sweet contrast to the spices.
Sweet Potato and Spinach Curry
Replace spring greens with fresh spinach for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Chickpea and Cauliflower Stew
Add cauliflower florets to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile and flavor.
Spicy Lentil and Veggie Bowl
Incorporate cooked lentils and additional vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for a protein-packed variation.
Cauliflower Rice with Curry
Serve the curry over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.
Veggie Naan Pizza
Use the ingredients to create a naan pizza topped with tikka-spiced veggies and a drizzle of yogurt.
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Toss roasted sweet potato chunks and chickpeas with fresh greens and a yogurt dressing for a refreshing salad option.
