Go Back
Print Recipe

Special Indian Butter Chickpeas (Vegetarian Butter Chicken Alternative)

🌟 Introduction
Craving that creamy, spiced Indian comfort food but want a vegetarian twist? This Special Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe brings all the luxurious flavor of butter chicken, minus the meat! With hearty chickpeas simmered in a buttery, spiced tomato gravy, this dish is comforting, satisfying, and 100% meat-free — perfect for vegetarians, vegans (with a few swaps), or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Veg
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Cost: 100

Ingredients

For the Chickpeas:

  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas or 1 can, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee use vegan butter for vegan version
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tomatoes purĂ©ed
  • 1/4 cup cashew paste or 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh cream or coconut cream for vegan
  • Salt to taste

Spices:

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp kasuri methi dried fenugreek leaves
  • 1 tsp sugar balances the tangy tomato base

Instructions

Sauté the Base:

  • In a heavy-bottom pan, heat butter and oil.
  • Add cumin seeds. Once they sizzle, add chopped onions and sautĂ© until golden.
  • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

  • Add purĂ©ed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates (approx. 8–10 mins).
  • Add turmeric, chili, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for another 2 mins.

Make it Creamy:

  • Add cashew paste (or coconut milk) and cook for 3–4 mins.
  • Stir in cream and sugar, then simmer for 2 more minutes.
  • Add chickpeas and mix well. Simmer for 10–12 mins on low.

Final Touch:

  • Crush and sprinkle kasuri methi over the curry.
  • Add garam masala, stir, and cook 2 more mins.
  • Garnish with a drizzle of cream and chopped coriander.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • Serve hot with naan, tandoori roti, or jeera rice
  • Pairs well with cucumber raita or onion salad
  • Add a side of papad for a crunchy contrast

💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    âś… High in fiber and plant protein

      âś… Creamy, rich & satisfying

        âś… Can be made vegan-friendly

          âś… Freezes well for meal prep