Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons coconut oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 500g mushrooms, sliced; 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating dishes that not only satisfy my cravings but also nourish my body. This Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry has quickly become one of my favorites. With its velvety coconut milk, earthy mushrooms, and protein-packed chickpeas, this recipe brings together a medley of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. I’m excited to share this delightful dish that’s both comforting and healthy, making it an instant hit in my home.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:04:19.547Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining mushrooms and chickpeas in a curry, I was intrigued. The synthesis of these ingredients created a wonderful umami flavor that is often hard to achieve while keeping a dish plant-based. I experimented with various spices, finally settling on a blend that enhances the dish without overwhelming it.

To elevate the creaminess of this curry, I opted for coconut milk, which brings both richness and a hint of sweetness. I also discovered that sautéing the mushrooms first intensifies their flavor, adding a delicious depth to the dish. It's become my go-to recipe for friends and family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that everyone will crave
Packed with nutrition from chickpeas and mushrooms
A delightful combination of spices that awaken your palate

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The combination of chickpeas and mushrooms in this curry not only creates a robust texture but also enhances the dish's nutritional profile. Chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this curry filling and satisfying. Meanwhile, mushrooms add earthiness and depth, complementing the creamy coconut milk perfectly. When selecting mushrooms, opt for a mix of varieties like cremini and shiitake for a more complex flavor, and ensure they’re fresh with no dark spots for the best outcomes.

Coconut milk is a key ingredient that provides a rich and velvety texture, helping to create the creamy base of the curry. When choosing coconut milk, I recommend using a full-fat version for the best consistency and creaminess. Lite coconut milk can be used, but it may result in a thinner sauce. If you're avoiding coconut, you could substitute with cashew cream; just blend soaked cashews with water until smooth to achieve a similar richness.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the aromatics at the beginning is essential for building flavor. When you cook the onions until they're translucent, they soften and caramelize, releasing sweetness that infuses the entire dish. Make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic, which can quickly turn bitter. If you notice the garlic is browning too fast, lower the heat immediately to preserve that fragrant aroma.

When adding spices, like curry powder and cumin, remember to toast them briefly in the pan. This step enhances their flavors and aromas, making a notable difference in the final taste of the dish. Be cautious not to skip the simmering step after adding coconut milk. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the curry to thicken properly; watch for it to bubble gently, stirring occasionally.

Ingredients

For the Curry

2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
500g mushrooms, sliced
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 7-8 minutes until they reduce in size and release their juices. Stir occasionally.

Add Chickpeas and Spices

Stir in the chickpeas, curry powder, and cumin. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly.

Incorporate Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk, mixing well. Bring the curry to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a touch of chili powder or fresh chilies. This curry also stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry is a fantastic dish for meal prep. Not only does it store well, but the flavors also deepen after sitting in the fridge for a day. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce, ensuring it remains creamy and avoids separation.

If you plan to freeze the curry, consider leaving out the fresh cilantro garnish until serving. Fresh herbs tend to lose their vibrant color and texture when frozen. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot throughout. This method ensures you maintain the desired texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, serve this curry over your choice of rice—jasmine, basmati, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pairing with naan or whole grain pita can also elevate the dining experience, allowing you to scoop up the creamy sauce. I often recommend a side of steamed greens to provide a refreshing contrast on the plate, adding a splash of color and nutrients.

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. You could add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition. Additionally, if you’re a fan of heat, consider incorporating diced chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the sauté stage to spice things up!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Absolutely! This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure to check any additional ingredients used.

→ Can I substitute the coconut milk?

For a lighter option, you can use almond milk, but it will alter the creaminess and flavor. Coconut milk is recommended for the best results.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

This curry pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, quinoa, or naan bread. You can also enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal.