Celebrate National Coconut Day with coconut chickpea curry

National Coconut Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the diverse and versatile coconut. This tropical fruit is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits.

From its refreshing water and creamy milk to its rich oil and tender flesh, every part of the coconut can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways.

Today, we honour this incredible fruit with a delicious and wholesome recipe: coconut chickpea curry.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1-2 green chillies, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or naan bread (for serving)
• Broccoli florets (for garnish)

Method

1. In a large pot or skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chillies (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and release the spices’ aroma, cooking for about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes, stirring to combined.
6. Add the drained chickpeas and salt, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
8. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until they wilt into the curry.
9. Squeeze in the juice of one lime to brighten the flavors and stir well.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or broccoli florets.