Massaman Chickpea and Paneer Curry is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional Thai Massaman curry with the hearty textures of chickpeas and paneer. This curry is perfect for those who love a comforting, creamy dish with a kick of spice. It’s balanced with tender potatoes, sweet peas, and tangy pickled onions, making it a wholesome meal. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice and fresh coriander for a satisfying and flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3 medium white potatoes, unpeeled, washed, cut into 4cm pieces
- 114g can Maesri Massaman Curry Paste: Adds authentic Thai flavor and spice.
- 400ml can coconut milk: Creates a creamy and rich base for the curry.
- 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained: Adds protein and a hearty texture.
- 1 small red onion, cut into thin wedges: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- ½ tsp caster sugar: Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar, plus ½ tsp extra: Adds acidity and brightness to the dish.
- 150g (1 cup) frozen peas: Adds color and sweetness.
- 3 tsp olive oil: For cooking the paneer.
- 200g packet paneer, cut into 1.5cm-thick triangles: Adds a creamy, mild flavor and protein.
- 450g packet microwave basmati rice: Quick and easy accompaniment.
- Fresh coriander sprigs, to serve: Adds a fresh, herbal note.
- Long fresh green chili, sliced, to serve (optional): Adds extra heat and color.
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Combine the potato, Massaman curry paste, and half of the coconut milk in a saucepan over high heat. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes.
- Add Chickpeas:
- Add the chickpeas, remaining coconut milk, and 125ml (½ cup) water to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes or until the potato is tender. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Pickled Onions and Peas:
- Meanwhile, place the red onion, caster sugar, and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar in a small bowl. Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the peas in a small saucepan of boiling water for 2 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Paneer:
- Heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the paneer triangles for 1 minute on each side or until golden brown.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Warm the basmati rice following the packet directions.
- Stir the extra ½ teaspoon of rice vinegar through the curry mixture, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Drain the pickled onion mixture, reserving the liquid.
- Transfer the curry to a serving bowl. Top with the cooked paneer, peas, and pickled onion. Drizzle a little of the reserved pickling liquid over the top.
- Scatter fresh coriander sprigs and sliced green chili, if using, over the curry.
- Serve hot with the basmati rice.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g
Serving
Massaman Chickpea and Paneer Curry is best served hot, with fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with fresh coriander and sliced green chilies for an extra pop of flavor and color. This dish is perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, offering a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Notes
- Curry Paste: Maesri Massaman Curry Paste is recommended for its authentic flavor, but you can use any brand you prefer.
- Paneer: If paneer is not available, you can substitute with tofu or halloumi.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry paste and green chilies to control the spice level.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This curry can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of curry paste? Yes, you can substitute with other curry pastes like Thai red or yellow curry paste, but the flavor profile will be different.
Is this dish vegetarian? Yes, this dish is vegetarian. For a vegan version, replace paneer with tofu and ensure your curry paste does not contain shrimp paste or fish sauce.
How do I make the curry less spicy? To make the curry less spicy, use less Massaman curry paste and omit the green chili garnish. You can also add more coconut milk to mellow the heat.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? Yes, fresh peas can be used. Just blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two until tender.
What if I don’t have rice vinegar? If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
Can I add meat to this curry? Yes, you can add chicken or beef to this curry. Cook the meat separately until fully done, then add it to the curry with the chickpeas.
How do I make the curry thicker? To thicken the curry, you can let it simmer uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mash a few of the potatoes and stir them back into the curry.
What can I serve with this curry besides rice? You can serve this curry with naan bread, roti, or quinoa as an alternative to basmati rice.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk? If you prefer, you can use heavy cream or a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or cashew milk, but the flavor will change slightly.
How do I keep the paneer from sticking to the pan? Ensure the frying pan is hot and well-oiled before adding the paneer. Non-stick pans are also helpful for preventing sticking.
In conclusion, 🌶️ Massaman Chickpea and Paneer Curry 🧀 is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich, creamy sauce and a perfect balance of spices, this curry is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!