Tamil-inspired Spiced Chickpea Stew

Ingredients

In this Tamil-inspired version, we have incorporated traditional Tamil spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, the use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, which is a characteristic of Tamil cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Moukhbaza, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked chickpeas 2 cups (400g) cooked chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 9g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.
3. 3.
   Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked chickpeas and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
6. 6.
   Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt to taste. Stir well.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Serve the Tamil-inspired Spiced Chickpea Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with steamed rice or warm naan bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpeas — If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly before adding to the stew to remove excess sodium. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before incorporating into the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a finely chopped green chili along with the onions and garlic.
• Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more coconut milk or water, depending on your preference.
• To enhance the flavor, you can toast the cumin and coriander seeds before grinding them into powder.

Serving advice

Serve the Tamil-inspired Spiced Chickpea Stew hot with steamed rice or warm naan bread. It also pairs well with a side of tangy pickles or yogurt raita.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in a deep bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the stew to shine through.