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Chickpea Tikka Masala

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Chickpea Tikka Masala is a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic Indian dish, featuring tender chickpeas simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce. This hearty, protein-packed meal is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 carrots, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1½ teaspoons ginger paste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic paste
  • ½ medium fresh jalapeño, finely chopped
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ¾ cup water (adjust as needed)
  • ¼ cup half and half (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, snipped
  • 4 cups hot cooked basmati rice (for serving)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onion and carrots; cook and stir until the onion becomes translucent (about 5 minutes).

Add Spices and Aromatics:

  1. Stir in garam masala, cumin, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add tomato paste, ginger paste, garlic paste, and chopped jalapeño; stir and cook for another minute.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Sauce:

  1. Add chickpeas, tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  2. Pour in water and stir to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Mixture:

  1. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish with Cream and Herbs:

  1. Stir in half and half (or coconut milk for a vegan option) and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
  2. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Serve:

  1. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan.

Notes

  • Vegan Option: Use coconut milk instead of half and half for a dairy-free version.
  • Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrients.
  • Spice Level: Adjust jalapeño and cayenne pepper to your preference.
  • Protein Boost: Add paneer or tofu for extra protein and texture.

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