Easy & Delicious Vegan Chickpea Curry or Palak Chole (Garbanzo Beans Curry)

Today in our plant-based kitchen, we are celebrating the rich and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with our aromatic Vegan Chickpea Curry aka Palak Chole. A dish that exudes warmth and comfort, this chickpea curry embodies the essence of traditional Indian cooking — where aromatic spices and hearty legumes come together to create a truly unforgettable blend of flavors.

A Journey Into Indian Gastronomy & Culinary Traditions

Prepare to be enveloped in a medley of aromas and complex flavors. The chickpeas are infused with exotic Indian herbs and spices, and gently simmered to perfection. Each spoonful offers a journey through the heart of Indian gastronomy. Every ingredient tells a story of tradition, culture, and the timeless art of fusion.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind cooking this sumptuous Vegan Chickpea Curry or Palak Chole, a dish that pays homage to the spirit of Indian cuisine while embracing wholesome, plant-based cooking. With every mouthful, you’ll discover that plant-based dishes can be both nourishing and indulgent, with no compromise on flavour.

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Exploring Chickpeas in our Vegan Chickpea Curry

Chickpeas or garbanzo beans are the heart of our Vegan Chickpea Curry. These wholesome legumes not only lend a wholesome texture and robust flavour but also bring a host of health benefits.

Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients such as folate, iron, and phosphorus, chickpeas serve as a nutritional powerhouse that supports overall well-being. Their high fiber content supports digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Their protein content makes them an excellent choice if you’re seeking to incorporate more plant-based protein sources into your diet.

In our Vegan Chickpea Curry, these versatile legumes provide a hearty and satisfying base. They absorb the rich flavours of the spices and herbs while retaining their delightful firm texture. Their mild, nutty taste perfectly complements the array of spices, creating a wholesome curry that is both filling and nourishing.

Chickpeas also boasts an impressive array of health benefits. They have been linked to improved digestion, regulated blood sugar levels, and reduced risk of chronic diseases, making them a valuable addition to a balanced and health-conscious diet. Additionally, their high folate content is beneficial for supporting heart health and aiding in the production of healthy red blood cells.

As we savour each spoonful of the Vegan Chickpea Curry, we not only indulge in a burst of flavours but also embrace the nourishing benefits of these remarkable legumes.

Unveiling the Art of Flavor: Crafting the Perfect Vegan Chickpea Curry with Authentic Indian Spices

The heart of this delectable vegan chickpea curry lies in its rich and aromatic blend of spices and herbs. The carefully crafted curry spice mix infuses each bite with an explosion of taste that is sure to leave you craving more.

At the base of this flavorful curry mix is the robust and earthy cumin seeds, known for their distinctive warm and nutty flavor. As they crackle in the hot oil, they release an inviting aroma that sets the stage for the entire cooking process. The addition of bay leaf and red chili contributes a subtle, yet fiery heat that complements the dish’s overall profile.

The medley of fresh ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and chili not only adds a delightful pungency but also brings a depth of flavor that marries beautifully with the earthiness of the cumin. The coriander seeds, lightly crushed for optimal infusion, contribute a citrusy, floral note that rounds out the curry’s complex flavor profile.

Paprika, turmeric, and coriander infuse the curry with a rich golden hue, adding warmth and depth to the dish. The aromatic cinnamon stick, coriander pods, and mace flower bring a subtle sweetness and a fragrant touch that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.

A Brief History & The Origin of Curry in Indian Cuisine

It’s worth mentioning that the history of curries in Indian cuisine dates back centuries, with regional variations influenced by local ingredients and cooking traditions. Originally derived from the Tamil word “kari,” which means sauce, curries have evolved to become an integral part of Indian culinary heritage, celebrated for their robust flavors and aromatic spices. The art of blending spices to create tantalizing curries is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that defines Indian cuisine.

As you savor this vegan chickpea curry, you’re not just enjoying a dish; you’re experiencing the rich history and culinary legacy of India.

Rich Creamy Curry, Sans Dairy: Elevating the Vegan Chickpea Curry with La Cooking’s Plant-Based Cream Substitute

For those seeking a wholesome and dairy-free alternative to traditional cream, La Cooking’s plant-based cream substitute adds a luxurious creaminess to our aromatic vegan chickpea curry. La Cooking’s product is renowned for its high-quality, plant-derived ingredients that offer a rich and velvety texture, mimicking the indulgent experience of dairy cream without any animal products.

In our chickpea curry recipe, this innovative substitute seamlessly integrates into the cooking process, infusing the dish with a luscious and velvety consistency that beautifully balances the array of robust spices and herbs. As it gently melds with the other ingredients, it creates a harmonious blend that enhances the overall texture and contributes to the dish’s depth of flavor.

La Cooking’s commitment to crafting plant-based alternatives that prioritize both taste and health aligns perfectly with the ethos of our vegan chickpea curry. Its smooth and creamy texture elevates the culinary experience, providing a guilt-free way to savor the richness and indulgence of a classic curry without compromising on dietary preferences.

Perfect Pairing: Fluffy Basmati Rice, the Ideal Companion to Our Flavorful Vegan Chickpea Curry

To complement the robust flavors of our vegan chickpea curry, we turn to the fragrant and delicate basmati rice, known for its long grains and distinct aroma. Cooking this rice to perfection ensures a light and fluffy texture that serves as an ideal canvas for the rich and aromatic curry.

To serve, top the simmering chickpea curry with a handful of fresh baby spinach, adding a vibrant touch that balances the earthy tones of the dish. Pair it with a generous helping of perfectly cooked basmati rice, bringing together the robust flavors of the curry and the delicate aroma of the rice.

The marriage of the aromatic basmati rice and the hearty vegan chickpea curry promises a delightful sensory experience that will leave you craving for more. Now you’re all set to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. Bon apetit!

vegan-chickpea-curry

Easy & Delicious Vegan Chickpea Curry (Garbanzo Beans)

This vegan chickpea curry is a true explosion of flavors and delectable comfort food!
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 portions
Calories 94.2 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy Bottom Pan

Ingredients
  

FOR THE CURRY

  • 3 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 red chili
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 2 chilis (freshly sliced, optional)
  • 2 red onions (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp ginger (freshly diced)
  • 400 g tomatoes (chopped)
  • ½ tsp paprika powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 coriander pods
  • ¼ mace flower
  • 800 g chickpeas (cooked, drained)
  • 400 ml La Cooking
  • 250 g spinach (thawed)
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg powder
  • Garnish: fresh baby spinach

FOR THE BASMATI RICE

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions
 

  • Heat up the oil in a heavy bottom pan and allow the cumin seeds to crackle.
  • Fry the bay leaf and red chili for 1 minute.
  • Add the onion, ginger, garlic and chili. Sautee for 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
  • Crush the coriander seeds a little in your hand and add them to the pot. Fry for another minute.
  • Transfer the chopped tomatoes, paprika pwder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, cinnamon stick, coriander pods and mace flower to the pot and cook for 10 minutes on medium-high heat, occasionally stirring.
  • Add the chickpeas to the pot followed by the La Cooking, spinach and nutmeg. Cover and cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes.
  • To cook the basmati rice, bring the water to a boil, add the rice and salt, and cook on high heat for a minute. Cover the pot and allow the pot to simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  • Top the chickpea curry with fresh baby spinach and serve with the basmati rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 94.2kcalFat: 10.7gSaturated Fat: 0.8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.7gTrans Fat: 0.04g
Keyword chickpea curry