Vegan Butter Chickpeas

This Vegan Butter Chickpeas recipe is a delightful spin on the classic butter chicken, transforming it into a plant-based feast that’s both comforting and satisfying. Made with wholesome ingredients, it brings together the creamy richness of cashews with the hearty texture of chickpeas, enveloped in a fragrant blend of spices. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Vegan Butter Chickpeas is not just another recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and nutrition. You’ll find yourself reaching for this dish time and again because:

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Full of Flavor: The aromatic spices combined with the creamy cashew sauce provide a depth of flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, with naan, or even as a filling for wraps or salads, like Mediterranean Chickpea Power Salad.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Your Shopping Guide

Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather everything you need for this dish. Here’s your shopping list:

• 1 cup raw cashews: Soaked for at least 2 hours and drained.
• 1 cup filtered water: For blending the cashews into a creamy sauce.
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup: To add a hint of sweetness.
• 2 large ripe tomatoes: Approximately 550 grams, the base of your sauce.
• 3 tablespoons unscented coconut oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 large yellow onion: Finely diced, about 1 ½ cups.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: A warm spice that enhances the flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander: Adds a citrusy note.
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika: For color and sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom: A fragrant spice that elevates the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth.
• Pinch of ground nutmeg: For a warm, nutty flavor.
• Sea salt and ground black pepper: To taste.
• 2 cloves of garlic: Minced, for added depth of flavor.
• 3 cups cooked chickpeas: Drained and rinsed (approximately 2 cans).
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: To brighten the dish.
• Chopped cilantro: For garnishing and freshness.

Essential Tools for Success

Having the right tools can make a world of difference in your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• High-speed blender: Essential for achieving a smooth cashew cream.
• Large skillet: For cooking the chickpeas and sauce.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping your vegetables and spices.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients evenly.

Method: Vegan Butter Chickpeas

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious Vegan Butter Chickpeas dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Cream

In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews with 1 cup of filtered water and 2 teaspoons of maple syrup. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Spices

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of unscented coconut oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Stir to coat the onions and garlic in the spices, allowing them to toast slightly for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Chop the large ripe tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and create a sauce. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Mix in the Chickpeas

Add the 3 cups of cooked chickpeas to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the tomato and spice mixture.

Step 6: Add the Cashew Cream

Pour the prepared cashew cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This will brighten the flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Vegan Butter Chickpeas warm, garnished with chopped cilantro. It pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even as a filling for a wrap.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking for ways to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor, consider the following tips:

• Use less coconut oil: Reduce the coconut oil to 1 tablespoon and substitute with vegetable broth for sautéing.
• Increase the vegetable content: Add more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
• Swap cashew cream for a lighter option: Use unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk instead of cashew cream.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best cooks can have a misstep. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Too Thick: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Not Flavorful Enough: If it tastes bland, try adding more spices or a touch of salt to enhance the flavor.
• Cashew Cream Lumps: Ensure your blender is high-speed enough to create a smooth cream. If it’s lumpy, blend longer.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely! Using canned chickpeas is a time-saver and makes this recipe even quicker to prepare. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before adding.

Can I make this dish nut-free?

Yes! You can replace the cashew cream with a combination of silken tofu blended with a bit of water or use a dairy-free cream alternative.

What can I serve with Vegan Butter Chickpeas?

This dish goes well with steamed basmati rice, quinoa, or naan. You could even serve it over a bed of greens or alongside dishes like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup for a hearty meal.

Can I adjust the spices?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your palate. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love this Vegan Butter Chickpeas recipe, you might also enjoy these quick and easy meals:

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta In 25 Minutes
• Mediterranean Chickpea Power Salad
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Time to Try It

With its rich flavors and comforting texture, Vegan Butter Chickpeas is a dish you won’t want to miss. Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. Happy cooking!