Hey y'all! If you're craving comfort food that's equally hearty and wholesome, this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe is about to be your new go-to meal. Creamy, rich, and brimming with aromatic spices, it transforms simple pantry staples into a dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining friends, or cozy Sunday lunches. Plus, it's vegetarian, protein-packed, and easy enough for any skill level. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- Delivers restaurant-style flavor in less than 40 minutes.
- Packed with plant-based protein and fiber for a filling meal.
- Creamy, silky sauce with vibrant, warming spices.
- Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- Easily customizable for vegan or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients for Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Basmati rice or naan, for serving
Directions: How to Make Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and soft. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 more minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Add all the spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, paprika, and salt) and stir for 30 seconds. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sugar, stirring well. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil starts to separate.
Step 3: Add Chickpeas & Simmer
Stir in the drained chickpeas and cook for another 8-10 minutes so they absorb all those delicious flavors. Lower the heat, then pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes more, until creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust salt or spice as needed.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, top with chopped cilantro, and serve hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.
Notes for Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- If you love a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree part of the mixture before adding cream.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free, vegan version that's just as rich as the original.
- Check your garam masala freshness—fresh spices truly make a difference!
Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe Variations
- Vegan: Swap butter for vegan butter and cream for coconut milk.
- Spicy Butter Chickpeas: Increase cayenne to 1 teaspoon and add a chopped green chili in step 1.
- Butter Chickpeas & Veggies: Add 2 cups fresh spinach or cooked diced sweet potatoes for a boost of nutrition and color.
Required Equipment for Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater (for ginger)
Storage Instructions & Shelf Life
Leftover Indian Butter Chickpeas can be cooled and transferred to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick. For longer storage, freeze cooled butter chickpeas for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. (Freezing tips here.)
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice or with warm garlic naan for a complete meal.
- Add a side of cucumber raita or simple green salad for fresh contrast.
- Pair with a glass of chilled mango lassi for a creamy, refreshing beverage.
Pro Tips for Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered to enhance the flavors and naturally thicken.
- For ultra-creamy texture, blend half the chickpeas into the sauce before finishing with cream.
- Use quality canned chickpeas or soak/double-cook dried ones for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions: Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe
- Can I make this Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Is Indian Butter Chickpeas Recipe naturally gluten-free?
- Yes, it's gluten-free as written—just pair with gluten-free sides if needed.
- How spicy is this dish?
- This recipe is mild-medium but can be easily amped up or toned down by adjusting the cayenne pepper.
Prep Time & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
-
1Melt the butter with the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
-
2Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
3Stir in the garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
-
4Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and bring to a simmer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
5Add the chickpeas, stir to combine, and simmer for another 10-12 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
-
6Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!