Introduction
Brazilian chickpea curry is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of spices with the hearty texture of chickpeas. This dish not only brings a taste of Brazil to your kitchen but also serves as a wholesome and nutritious meal. Ideal for plant-based diets, it is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chickpeas – 2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
Diced tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz)
Spinach – 2 cups, fresh or frozen
Curry powder – 2 tablespoons
Cumin – 1 teaspoon
Cilantro – for garnish
Salt – to taste
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 45 minutes
Yield – 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion, garlic, and ginger finely. Rinse and drain the chickpeas.
Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Introduce the Spices
Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook the spices for about 1-2 minutes.
Add the Chickpeas
Incorporate the rinsed chickpeas into the pot, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture.
Add Tomato and Coconut Milk
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and coconut milk. Stir everything together to combine.
Simmer the Curry
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by rice or bread.
Notes
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for additional flavor and nutrition.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This curry can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Spiciness
Adjust the level of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with basmati rice, quinoa, or naan for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sauteing
Sauteing is a technique used to cook ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. This method enhances flavors and helps achieve a nice golden color on the onions and garlic.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food in liquid at a low temperature, just below boiling. This technique is ideal for developing flavors in soups and curries, allowing ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Blending
Blending is used to create a smooth texture by mixing ingredients thoroughly. For this recipe, a blender can help incorporate the chickpeas and spices into a cohesive curry.
Layering flavors
Layering flavors is the process of adding ingredients in stages, starting with aromatics like onions and garlic, followed by spices, and finishing with liquids. This technique ensures that each component contributes to the overall taste.
Reducing
Reducing is the technique of simmering a liquid to evaporate water content, intensifying flavors and thickening sauces. This is key to achieving the desired consistency for the curry.
FAQ
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas; however, you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand.
Is this curry spicy?
The curry can be adjusted to your spice preference by varying the amount of chili used.
Can I add vegetables to this curry?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze this chickpea curry?
Yes, the curry freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
This Brazilian Chickpea Curry is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors and textures of Brazilian cuisine. It combines the earthiness of chickpeas with a medley of spices, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a nutritious option that can be enjoyed by everyone, including vegetarians and vegans. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chickpea Salad
Combine cooked chickpeas with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh and healthy salad.
Curry Vegetable Stir-Fry
Sauté a mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots with curry powder and coconut milk for a quick and colorful dish.
Quinoa and Chickpea Bowl
Layer cooked quinoa, roasted chickpeas, and your favorite veggies, drizzled with tahini sauce for a nutritious meal bowl.
Rice and Beans
Serve the chickpea curry alongside traditional rice and beans for a classic South American combination that is both filling and satisfying.
Spicy Lentil Soup
Create a warming lentil soup by spicing it with cumin, coriander, and turmeric, complementing it with the chickpea curry on the side.
Coconut Curry Shrimp
Make a coconut curry shrimp dish that pairs well with the chickpea curry, allowing for a unique blend of flavors to delight your palate.