Ground Beef And Chickpea Curry

Name: Ground Beef And Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry at home. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the rich taste of beef complementing the nutty chickpeas. Each time I prepare this dish, it fills my kitchen with a warm, aromatic scent that promises a satisfying meal ahead. The best part is how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it an excellent choice for dinner on a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:55:36.422Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry, I was amazed at how well the spices blended with the ingredients. The key was to give the spices a little time in the pan before adding the beef and chickpeas, which really brought out their flavor. Over time, I've adjusted the ingredients to enhance the curry's creaminess, which I think makes all the difference in texture!

One tip I can offer is to use freshly grated ginger instead of powdered. The freshness adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to replicate. Plus, serving it with a side of warm naan or steamed rice takes the dish to another level. It’s an easy dish that feels gourmet!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty blend of beef and chickpeas for a satisfying meal
Flavorful spices that create a delicious aroma
Quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy nights
One-pot recipe for easy cleanup

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of ground beef and chickpeas in this curry provides a satisfying mix of protein and texture. Ground beef gives the dish a robust flavor and helps to create a hearty base, while chickpeas add a nutty creaminess and substantial bite. If you're looking to lighten it up, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes, maintaining the heartiness while reducing fat content.

Using fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and onion enhances the aromatic profile of this dish. Sautéing them until the onions are translucent allows their flavors to bloom, creating a fragrant foundation for the curry. I recommend using fresh ginger over powdered for a brighter taste, and if you want more heat, consider incorporating diced fresh chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Cooking Techniques to Elevate Your Curry

Proper browning of the beef is crucial for a depth of flavor. When adding the ground beef to the skillet, ensure it’s spread out evenly in the pan for optimal caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as that can steam the meat rather than brown it, leading to a less flavorful end result. If you notice any moisture pooling, increase the heat slightly to allow it to evaporate.

Simmering the curry with coconut milk not only enriches the dish but also helps meld all flavors together. After adding the coconut milk, keep an eye on the heat; a gentle simmer is preferred. This slow cooking allows the spices to infuse their flavor without scorching the milk, resulting in a creamy texture that's both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

How to Make It

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 6-8 minutes.

Combine Chickpeas and Spices

Stir in the curry powder, followed by the chickpeas and diced tomatoes. Mix well and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Simmer with Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside naan or rice.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper during the sautéing step. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of coconut milk for a creamier or lighter curry.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, allowing you to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce. For an extra flourish, consider serving it with a side of cooling yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the spices. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish, adding a touch of acidity that enhances the flavors.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it just as delightful the next day. If you’re looking to make ahead, this dish freezes well—portion it out and you’ll have an easy meal for those hectic nights.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize this curry with your favorite vegetables. Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini during the simmering stage for added color, flavor, and nutrients. Just be mindful of cook times; softer vegetables like spinach require less cooking, so add them in the last few minutes.

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with various curry powders or even try adding garam masala right before serving. This spiced blend can deepen the taste of the curry, providing a unique twist that elevates the dish and keeps it exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, chicken or turkey can be used as delicious alternatives to ground beef.

→ How can I make this curry vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with lentils or more chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of coconut milk.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This curry freezes well. Just ensure it's in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 months.

→ What should I serve with this curry?

It's great with rice, warm naan, or even a simple side salad for a complete meal.