Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry

Introducing a twist on traditional curry – Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry! Bursting with a fusion of savoury and nutty flavours, this vegetarian dish is a delight for your taste buds. Tender chickpeas, potatoes, tomatoes and bell peppers are simmered in a luscious blend of coconut milk, vegetable stock, and aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. The star of this curry, however, is the creamy peanut butter that adds richness and depth. Served with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, this wholesome and flavourful peanut butter chickpea curry is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

Peanut Butter in My Curry?

Peanut butter might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of curry, but it actually makes a delicious and unique addition to this recipe! The creamy, nutty flavour of peanut butter pairs perfectly with the spices and vegetables in the curry, adding an extra dimension of richness and depth.

Not only does peanut butter add flavour to the dish, but it also brings a wealth of nutritional benefits. Peanut butter is a great source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fibre. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. The protein and fibre in peanut butter can help with satiety, while the healthy fats can improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

So, not only is peanut butter a tasty addition to the Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry, but it also adds some serious nutritional punch to this already healthy and flavourful dish!

Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry: The Ingredients

Thinking of making my Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry? You’ll need the following ingredients…

Oil: Used for sautéing the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices, oil helps to bring out the flavours and aromas of the ingredients. Different oils can bring different tastes and textures to the curry. For example, coconut oil can add a slightly sweet and nutty flavour, while olive oil can provide a fruity and slightly bitter taste. Oil can also add healthy fats to the dish, which can help with satiety and nutrient absorption.

Onion: A versatile vegetable that adds a natural sweetness and depth to the curry. Onions can have different levels of sweetness and pungency depending on the type used, such as red, yellow, or white onions. They also provide fibre, vitamin C, and other beneficial nutrients that can help with digestion, immune function, and overall health.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, slightly sweet, and savoury flavour to the curry. Garlic can be used fresh or dried, and can have different levels of intensity depending on how it’s prepared. Garlic also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Red Chillies: Adds heat and a spicy flavour to the curry. Red chilies contain capsaicin, a compound that is known to boost metabolism and reduce inflammation. Different types of red chilies can have different levels of heat and flavour, such as Thai chilies, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños.

Fresh Ginger: Adds a slightly tangy, warm, and spicy flavour to the curry. Ginger can be used fresh or dried, and can be grated or chopped depending on the recipe. Ginger is also known to aid in digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.

Curry Powder: A blend of spices that typically includes turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other flavourful ingredients. Curry powder adds a distinct and delicious aroma and flavour to the curry. Different blends of curry powder can have varying levels of heat and complexity, depending on the ingredients used.

Garam Masala: Another blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. Garam Masala adds a warm and earthy flavour to the curry. Garam Masala usually includes cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander, and can have a slightly sweet taste as well.

Turmeric Powder: A bright yellow spice that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric also adds a warm and slightly bitter flavour to the curry.

Ground Coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet, and spicy flavour to the curry. Coriander is the seed of the cilantro plant and can be used fresh or dried. Coriander is also a good source of fibre vitamins, and minerals.

Cumin: Adds a warm, nutty, and slightly earthy flavour to the curry. Cumin is a staple in many spice blends and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Cumin is also a good source of antioxidants and has digestive benefits.

Potatoes: Add a starchy texture and a subtle sweetness to the curry. Potatoes can be boiled, mashed, or roasted depending on the recipe. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamin C.

Bell Pepper: Adds a crunchy texture and a sweet and slightly bitter flavour to the curry. Bell peppers can be red, green, or yellow, and can be used fresh or roasted. They are also a good source of fibre and vitamin C

Is Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry High In Calories?

The calorie content of chickpea curry can vary depending on the recipe and the serving size. However, in general, chickpea curry is considered to be a fairly healthy and nutritious dish, particularly if it is made with a lot of vegetables and spices (like this Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry!).

A one-cup serving of chickpea curry typically contains around 200-300 calories, depending on the specific recipe. This is relatively low compared to many other types of meals, particularly if the dish is served with a modest portion of rice or other grains.

It’s worth noting that chickpea curry is also high in fibre and protein, both of which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. This can be helpful for weight management and overall health.

Of course, if you are concerned about the calorie content of your meals, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the appropriate caloric intake for your individual needs and goals.

How Do You Thicken Peanut Curry?

If you find that your peanut butter chickpea curry is too thin or watery and you want to thicken it up, there are a few different methods you can try:

1. Reduce the sauce: One of the simplest ways to thicken any type of curry is to let it simmer on the stove for a longer period of time. As the liquid evaporates, the sauce will naturally thicken. Just be sure to keep an eye on the curry and stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
   
2. Add a slurry: Another option is to add a slurry, which is a mixture of cornstarch and water or another liquid. Start by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth paste. Then, whisk the slurry into the curry and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens up.
   
3. Use coconut cream: If you’re making a coconut-based peanut curry, you can also try adding some coconut cream to thicken the sauce. Simply stir in a few tablespoons of coconut cream and let the curry simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Keep in mind that the amount of thickening you need will depend on the specific recipe and your personal preferences. You may need to experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you. If you follow this peanut butter chickpea curry recipe closely, you shouldn’t need to worry too much about having to thicken it up – it’s been tested and tested and it’s pretty great!

Love Chickpeas? Want to Try Another Chickpea Dish?

So you love my Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry but you want to try something a little different? Why not try my Chocolate Chickpea Bark?

Or Do You Absolutely Adore Peanut Butter?

If you’re a peanut butter lover like me, you NEED to try these chewy peanut butter balls!

Or why not try my Peanut Butter Fudge recipe?