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Creamy One-Pot Vegan Chickpea Tikka Masala

creamy one-pot vegan chickpea tikka masala - featured image

A comforting and creamy vegan chickpea tikka masala made in one pot with simple pantry staples, perfect for quick and flavorful weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Optional: chopped spinach or kale (added near end of cooking)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  4. Sprinkle in garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper; stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add the rinsed chickpeas and vegetable broth; stir to coat evenly. Bring to a low simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  7. Pour in the coconut milk and stir carefully until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Simmer for another 5 minutes and adjust salt to taste.
  8. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or water. For thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or flatbread.

Notes

Toast spices before adding liquids to bloom flavors properly. Keep heat moderate to avoid scorching. Use canned chickpeas for convenience or soak and cook dried chickpeas fully before use. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering longer. Optional additions include spinach or kale near the end for extra nutrition. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan, chickpea tikka masala, one-pot, easy dinner, plant-based, creamy curry, gluten-free, dairy-free