Curried Cauliflower Chickpea Stew

Featured in: Everyday Delights

This curried cauliflower and chickpea stew blends tender florets and chickpeas simmered in fragrant spices and coconut milk. Aromatic curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and smoky paprika create depth, while garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables enhance natural flavor. Simmered to perfection, it offers a creamy, nourishing dish ideal for weeknight dinners. Garnish with cilantro and lime for a bright, fresh finish. Serve with rice or naan to complete this easy vegan, gluten-free option packed with wholesome ingredients.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:49:00 GMT
A steaming bowl of Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime. Save
A steaming bowl of Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime. | tastychuck.com

A fragrant, creamy plant-based stew featuring tender cauliflower and chickpeas simmered in a spiced coconut curry sauce. Perfect for a budget-friendly weeknight meal.

I love making this stew because it fills my kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and always pleases the whole family.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 medium head, cut into florets
  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
  • Carrot: 1 large, diced
  • Red bell pepper: 1, diced
  • Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz)
  • Chickpeas: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz), drained and rinsed
  • Coconut milk: 1 can (400 ml / 13.5 oz), full-fat or light
  • Vegetable broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Curry powder: 2 tbsp
  • Ground cumin: 1 tsp
  • Ground turmeric: 1/2 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
  • Chili flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional, for heat)
  • Salt: 1 tsp or to taste
  • Black pepper: freshly ground, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro: chopped, for garnish
  • Lime wedges: for serving

Instructions

Step 1:
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil or a few tablespoons of water for oil-free. Sauté onion for 3 minutes until softened.
Step 2:
Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3:
Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Step 4:
Add carrot, bell pepper, and cauliflower florets. Cook for 3 4 minutes, stirring often.
Step 5:
Pour in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir in salt and pepper.
Step 6:
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 7:
Stir in chickpeas and simmer uncovered for 5 8 minutes more, allowing the stew to thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 8:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Creamy and aromatic, this Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew simmers with tender veggies and warm spices. Save
Creamy and aromatic, this Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew simmers with tender veggies and warm spices. | tastychuck.com

This stew always brings my family together around the table for a warm, comforting meal we all enjoy.

Substitution Ideas

You can swap out carrots or bell pepper for sweet potato or zucchini to vary the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cooked basmati rice, naan bread, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Enjoy a comforting serving of vegan Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew, perfect for a flavorful dinner tonight. Save
Enjoy a comforting serving of vegan Curried Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew, perfect for a flavorful dinner tonight. | tastychuck.com

This curried cauliflower and chickpea stew is a delicious, nutritious meal that’s simple to make and sure to please.

Recipe Guide

How can I adjust the heat level in this stew?

Reduce or omit chili flakes for milder flavor, or add fresh chili peppers to increase spiciness according to your preference.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

Use canned oat milk or almond milk with a tablespoon of coconut oil for creaminess, keeping the stew rich and smooth.

Can this stew be prepared oil-free?

Yes, sauté the vegetables using water or vegetable broth instead of oil to keep the dish oil-free without sacrificing flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan bread complement the textures and soak up the flavorful coconut curry sauce wonderfully.

How long does the stew keep in the refrigerator?

Store covered in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making leftovers delicious.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Absolutely! Sweet potato, zucchini, spinach, or kale make great additions and can be added during cooking to enhance texture and nutrition.

Curried Cauliflower Chickpea Stew

Tender cauliflower and chickpeas in a creamy, spiced coconut curry for a comforting plant-based meal.

Prep duration
15 min
Heat time
30 min
Full duration
45 min
Created by Chuck Harrison


Skill level Easy

Heritage Indian-Inspired

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Labels Plant-Based, No dairy, No gluten

What you'll need

Vegetables

01 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
02 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 1-inch fresh ginger piece, grated
05 1 large carrot, diced
06 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
08 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Coconut & Liquids

01 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk, full-fat or light
02 1 cup vegetable broth

Spices & Seasonings

01 2 tablespoons curry powder
02 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
04 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 0.5 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
06 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
07 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

01 Fresh cilantro, chopped
02 Lime wedges

Method

Phase 01

Sauté onion: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil or a few tablespoons of water for oil-free cooking. Sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes until softened.

Phase 02

Add garlic and ginger: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Phase 03

Toast spices: Add curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and optional chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to release aromas.

Phase 04

Cook vegetables: Add diced carrot, red bell pepper, and cauliflower florets. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently.

Phase 05

Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir to combine.

Phase 06

Simmer vegetables: Bring mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Phase 07

Add chickpeas and thicken: Stir in drained chickpeas. Continue simmering uncovered for 5 to 8 minutes to thicken the stew. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Phase 08

Garnish and serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime wedges.

Kitchen tools

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains coconut, which may be a tree nut allergen for some individuals.
  • Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free; verify broth and curry powder labels for hidden allergens.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 310
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Proteins: 9 g