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Bowl of Easy Chickpea Tikka Masala with fresh herbs, served over rice.

Easy Chickpea Tikka Masala — Vegetarian Indian

A cozy and bold vegetarian dinner featuring chickpeas in a creamy, spiced tomato-based curry sauce that's quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian, Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cans Chickpeas Canned, rinsed well
  • 1 medium Onion Chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Fresh, grated or ginger paste
  • 14.5 oz Crushed tomatoes Or tomato puree
  • 1 tablespoon Garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika or mild chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
  • to taste Salt
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or oil For cooking
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream, coconut milk, or plain yogurt Use what fits your diet
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 pinch Sugar If tomatoes are very acidic
  • 1 lemon Squeeze of lemon For finishing

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook onion in butter or oil until soft and a bit golden.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds.
  3. Add spices (garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric) and stir briefly to toast.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 8 to 12 minutes to thicken.
  5. Add chickpeas and a splash of water if needed, simmer for 5 to 8 minutes.
  6. Stir in cream or coconut milk, simmer for 2 minutes, and adjust salt to taste.
  7. Finish with a small pinch of garam masala, lemon juice, and chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

Don't skip the simmering step after adding tomatoes for the best flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if necessary.