Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
300 | 18g | 9g | 26g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
6g | 7g | 10g | 1g |
There is something extraordinarily comforting about a dish like Alexanders and Chickpea Curry. From the moment the olive oil heats in the pan, enveloping the finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, a cloud of aromas starts to fill the kitchen, hinting at the delicious meal that awaits. This recipe takes me back to my childhood days spent in Montana, where hearty and wholesome dishes were a staple. While it’s a far cry from bison burgers and huckleberry pies, it harmonizes the essence of natural flavors and comforting spices, offering a warming embrace with each bite.
A Fusion of Flavors and Tradition
What makes Alexanders and Chickpea Curry so special to me is its unique blend of ingredients. Alexanders, an ancient herb often found in coastal regions, bring a slightly celery-like taste that is both unexpected and enlightening. When substituted with celery, it remains just as wholesome and nourishing. Combined with rich and creamy coconut milk, tangy diced tomatoes, and a medley of spices like curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder, each spoonful is a symphony of flavors that captivates the palate.
Health Benefits Galore
Aside from its delightful taste, Alexanders and Chickpea Curry is brimming with nutritional benefits. The chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and keeping you full longer. Ginger and turmeric have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting benefits. Coconut milk adds a dash of creamy indulgence without compromising on healthy fats. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body.
For those wanting to explore similar dishes, you might be interested in trying Chickpea Coconut Curry or Veggie Curry, both of which share a similar comforting and diverse flavor profile. Also, Alexanders and Chickpea Curry pairs wonderfully with cooked rice or naan, providing a perfect balance between the rich curry and the neutral, fluffy textures of the rice or the soft, chewy bread.
In essence, every time I prepare Alexanders and Chickpea Curry, I’m reminded of the beauty of diverse culinary traditions and how they can be woven together to create something truly special. It’s a recipe that embodies comfort, nourishment, and exotic charm all in one bowl.
What You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups Alexanders, chopped (substitute celery if unavailable)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic and minced ginger to the pot, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Step Four
Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, chickpeas, chopped Alexanders (or celery), and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step Five
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
Step Six
Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the lemon juice and freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.
Step Seven
Serve the Alexanders and Chickpea Curry hot over cooked rice or with warm naan. Enjoy!