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Creamy Vegan Chickpea Tikka Masala

creamy vegan chickpea tikka masala - featured image

A quick and easy creamy vegan chickpea tikka masala that balances bold spices with gentle creaminess, perfect for cozy nights and packed with plant-based protein.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 3 tablespoons tikka masala paste
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
  • 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Mix in the tikka masala paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of tomato puree, stirring to combine. Let simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add the drained chickpeas and 1/2 cup vegetable broth. Stir well to coat the chickpeas in the sauce.
  7. Slowly add 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, uncovered, stirring every few minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice if desired and stir through.
  9. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top before serving.

Notes

Do not rush sautéing onions to build flavor. Keep heat low when adding coconut milk to prevent splitting. Avoid overcooking chickpeas to keep texture. Add lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors. If sauce thickens too much, add more broth or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan, chickpea, tikka masala, creamy, easy, plant-based, Indian, coconut milk, gluten-free