Ground Beef And Chickpea Curry

Name: Ground Beef And Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry when I need something hearty and satisfying. The blend of spices infuses the ground beef with so much flavor, while the chickpeas provide a lovely texture that balances everything perfectly. This dish not only warms up my kitchen but also fills my home with an irresistible aroma that keeps everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that saves me both time and effort, making it a go-to recipe during busy weeknights.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:33:36.626Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry, I immediately knew it would become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender ground beef with the nutty flavor of chickpeas creates a well-balanced dish that is both filling and nutritious. I like to serve it over steaming rice, which helps soak up all the delicious sauce.

A special tip I picked up is to toast the spices before adding the meat. This enhances their flavors and really brings the dish to life. Trust me; once you try it this way, you won't want to go back!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly flavorful with a warm spice blend
Rich texture with the addition of hearty chickpeas
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weekdays

Mastering the Cooking Technique

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry, pay close attention while sautéing the onions. Cooking them until they are translucent (about 5 minutes) creates a sweet base that enhances the overall depth of the curry. If you notice them starting to brown prematurely, lower the heat slightly; caramelized edges can add a unique flavor, but too much can turn bitter.

When adding the ground beef, ensure that your heat is set to medium-high. This allows for a nice browning, which develops flavor through the Maillard reaction. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break apart the meat as it cooks. You should aim for it to lose all pink color within about 7 minutes. If using lean ground beef, you may find minimal fat accumulation, but if using a fattier blend, drain the excess to avoid a greasy curry.

Creative Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to switch up the spices based on your preference! For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a fresh chopped chili when you incorporate the garlic and ginger. If you have garam masala on hand, replacing or adding it to the curry powder can deepen the flavor profile, giving it a more complex taste.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative or to make the dish vegetarian, consider substituting the ground beef with a plant-based mince or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. This not only cuts down on calories but also allows you to incorporate a medley of flavors; just ensure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly, as vegetables will cook faster than beef.

Ingredients

For the Curry

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Onions and Spices

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the curry powder and cumin, mixing well for about 1 minute.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Stir in the chickpeas and diced tomatoes, including their juices. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the curry over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding a chopped chili pepper when sautéing the onions. This will enhance the dish's flavor without overpowering the curry.

Storage and Reheating

This Ground Beef and Chickpea Curry is perfect for meal prep! After cooling, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the curry into freezer-safe bags or containers and it will keep for about 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop over low heat until piping hot, about 10 minutes.

If you're reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for better texture and flavor retention. You might notice that the curry thickens in the fridge; feel free to add a splash of water or broth while heating to return it to your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this heartwarming curry over fluffy rice for a complete meal, or pair it with warm naan to mop up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad can offer a crunchy contrast to the dish's rich textures. For a pop of freshness, you can also add a dollop of yogurt on top before serving, which will balance the spices nicely.

To elevate the presentation, chop extra cilantro and sprinkle it liberally over the finished dish. This not only appeals visually but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the curry. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it in a hollowed-out bell pepper or alongside a warm pita for a fun twist on classic serving methods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works great in this recipe and will still be flavorful.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the meat with extra chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ What should I serve with the curry?

Serving it with rice or naan bread is ideal. You can also enjoy it alongside a fresh salad.