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Vegan Chickpea Curry

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Vegan curry offers a plethora of benefits, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for anyone, regardless of their dietary preferences. Here are some of the key benefits:

  1. Nutrient-rich: Vegan curries often contain a variety of vegetables, legumes, and spices, providing a wide range of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
  2. High in fiber: Ingredients like vegetables, lentils, and beans in vegan curries are high in fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber can help regulate bowel movements, lower cholesterol levels, and control blood sugar levels.
  3. Low in saturated fat: Vegan curries typically use plant-based oils instead of animal fats, making them lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. This can contribute to heart health and help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  4. Promotes weight management: Due to their high fiber content and lower calorie density compared to meat-based dishes, vegan curries can be a great option for those looking to manage their weight. The fiber and protein in plant-based ingredients also help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods.
  5. Supports environmental sustainability: Choosing vegan curry over meat-based dishes can have a positive impact on the environment. Plant-based diets generally have a lower carbon footprint and require fewer natural resources such as water and land, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and preserve biodiversity.
  6. Versatile and flavorful: Vegan curries come in a variety of flavors and styles from different regions around the world, offering a diverse culinary experience. With the right combination of herbs and spices, vegan curries can be just as flavorful and satisfying as their meat-based counterparts.
  7. Allergy-friendly: Vegan curries are free from common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and gluten, making them suitable for people with food sensitivities or allergies. They can be easily customized to accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences.

Overall, vegan curry is a delicious and nutritious option that offers numerous health benefits, supports environmental sustainability, and can be enjoyed by people with various dietary preferences and restrictions.

 

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Vegan Chickpea Curry
Author: 
Recipe type: Curry
Cuisine: India
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
 
Ingredients
  • 2 shallots
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • Thumb sized piece ginger
  • 2 peppers
  • 1 tin chickpeas drained
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 400ml tinned tomatoes
  • 1 heaped teaspoon of peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • large pinch of salt
  • 50g spinach
  • squeeze of 1 lime
  • sprinkle chilli flakes
Instructions
  1. Roughly chop the shallots, ginger and garlic and get into a hot pan with a drizzle of oil
  2. In the meantime chop the peppers, add to the pan
  3. After a minute or two add the drained chickpeas and tinned tomatoes
  4. Add the spices and seasoning followed by the coconut milk
  5. Stir together on a high heat then add in the peanut butter
  6. Add the spinach just before serving and sprinkle with chilli flakes and a good squeeze of lime

 

 

 

Spices, Not just for flavour but good For health as too

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Spices are not only used to enhance the flavor of food but also offer various health benefits due to their rich nutritional profiles and bioactive compounds. Here are some common spices and their associated health benefits:

  1. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammation, improve brain health, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
  2. Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  3. Ginger: Contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Ginger may help alleviate nausea, reduce muscle pain and soreness, lower blood sugar levels, and improve digestion.
  4. Garlic: Known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Garlic may help boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve heart health.
  5. Cayenne Pepper: Contains capsaicin, which gives it its spicy heat and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Cayenne pepper may also boost metabolism, aid in weight loss, and improve digestive health.
  6. Black Pepper: Contains piperine, a compound that may enhance nutrient absorption, particularly of nutrients like curcumin from turmeric. Black pepper may also have antioxidant properties and help improve digestion.

  1. Cumin: Rich in antioxidants and may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and lower blood sugar levels. Cumin may also have antimicrobial properties and aid in weight loss.
  2. Coriander: Contains antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Coriander may help lower blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
  3. Cloves: Packed with antioxidants and have antibacterial properties. Cloves may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, promote oral health, and protect against oxidative stress.
  4. Cardamom: Contains antioxidants and may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure. Cardamom may also have antibacterial properties and help freshen breath.

It’s important to note that while spices can provide health benefits, they are most effective when consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, individual responses to spices may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.