Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 250g mushrooms, sliced; 1 can coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I can't get enough of this Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry! The combination of rich coconut milk and hearty chickpeas creates a delightful dish that's not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. The earthy tones of mushrooms blend beautifully with warm spices, transforming simple ingredients into an impressive meal. I love serving this dish over fluffy rice or alongside warm naan, and I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:52:13.555Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a rich and hearty dish. I used a blend of spices that not only enhance the flavor but also bring out the natural umami in the mushrooms. One tip I discovered is to let the curry simmer for a little longer, which helps all the flavors meld beautifully.

Now, it’s become an absolute favorite in my home. I've even adapted the recipe to include seasonal veggies, and it works flawlessly! With minimal prep and maximum flavor, I never feel guilty about enjoying a big bowl of this curry, knowing it's both nutritious and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and satisfies.
Hearty chickpeas packed with protein.
A perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly.

      

Understanding the Flavors

The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a luscious base that enhances the earthiness of the mushrooms. Coconut milk adds a creamy richness without being overwhelming, allowing the spices to shine through. The warm, aromatic notes of curry powder and cumin complement the savory mushrooms and chickpeas perfectly, giving the curry a balanced depth of flavor that is both comforting and exciting.

Mushrooms play a critical role in this dish, not only providing a satisfying texture but also absorbing the flavors of the spices and coconut milk. When sautéed properly, they should become tender and slightly golden, releasing their moisture and developing a rich umami taste. Choosing a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini and shiitake, can elevate the flavor profile even more.

Tips for Perfecting Your Curry

When cooking the onion, aim for it to become translucent but not browned; this sets a sweet base for the dish. If you happen to overcook it and it starts to caramelize, just reduce the heat and add a splash of water to deglaze the pan, lifting those flavorful bits back into the mix without burning the ingredients.

For a little extra texture, consider adding some baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully into the rich sauce and contribute a pop of color and nutrition. This not only enhances the overall flavor but also increases the dish’s health benefits, making it even more wholesome.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
250g mushrooms, sliced
1 can coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

These ingredients will create the delicious creamy base and robust flavor for your curry.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your flavorful curry:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to release their moisture and become tender.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Sprinkle the curry powder and cumin over the mushrooms. Stir well to coat, then add the drained chickpeas to the mixture, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Mix in Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt to taste. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the curry from heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.

Now your Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving. You can also customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Mushroom Chickpea Curry is excellent for meal prep. You can make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week; simply cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, it can also be frozen for up to three months—just remember to leave out the cilantro garnish until you’re ready to serve.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat; you may need to add a splash of water or more coconut milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If you prefer to microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout. This maintains the creamy texture and prevents overcooking the chickpeas or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this curry over fluffy basmati rice, which absorbs the rich sauce beautifully. For a more filling meal, you can serve it with quinoa or even whole grain couscous, both of which add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices in the curry. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving it with homemade naan or roti; they are perfect for scooping up every last bit of curry.

For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a little lime or lemon juice over the dish just before serving. This brightness contrasts wonderfully with the creamy elements and spices, elevating the overall experience. You can also offer a side of yogurt or a cooling raita to balance the heat and add creaminess, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Yes, this curry tastes even better the next day! Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

→ Is this curry vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegan diets.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

This curry pairs beautifully with basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan. You can also add a side salad for some freshness.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this curry freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.