I remember the first time I tried Nanami Togarashi, this fascinating Japanese spice blend. I was visiting a tiny ramen shop in Tokyo, and the owner sprinkled it generously over my bowl. The complex flavors – citrusy, spicy, nutty – just blew me away. It sparked an idea: why not incorporate it into a chickpea curry? And let me tell you, it's a total game-changer. The warmth of the curry, combined with the unique zing of the Togarashi, creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
This Japanese Nanami Togarashi Chickpea Curry isn’t your run-of-the-mill curry; it's a flavor adventure! It's a hearty, wholesome dish that's packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make. We're talking about a medley of tender chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and the star of the show: Nanami Togarashi, a Japanese spice blend that adds a delightful kick with its mix of chili peppers, citrus peel, sesame seeds, and more. You know, last week I was making this and totally forgot to add the sweet potato. Guess what? It still tasted fantastic! So don't stress too much about perfection.
So, what does this all mean for you? Well, for starters, you get a delicious, healthy, and unique curry recipe that's sure to impress. It's also a fantastic way to experiment with new flavors and spice up your culinary routine. And who knows, maybe it'll even inspire your own fusion creations! It is a very versatile recipe and you can easily change it up depending on what's in your fridge, I've done that more times than I can count! I encourage everyone to give this recipe a try. Experiment with the ingredients, adjust the spice level, and have fun with it. This curry is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey waiting to happen.
Required Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Japanese Nanami Togarashi Chickpea Curry: Frequently Asked Questions
Japanese Nanami Togarashi Chickpea Curry
Spice up your weeknight dinner with this Japanese Nanami Togarashi Chickpea Curry! A flavorful blend of chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and unique Japanese spices for a cozy and exciting meal.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- First, heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. I know what you're thinking...coconut oil?! Just trust me.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; letting the onions caramelize a bit adds so much flavor.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
- Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are toasted and fragrant. This is where the magic happens!
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are packed with flavor, so don’t leave them behind!
- Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and the diced sweet potato. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the coconut cream or milk and the Nanami Togarashi. Adjust the amount of Nanami Togarashi to your liking, depending on how spicy you want it.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dash more Nanami Togarashi.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice (if using).
- Serve hot over rice or quinoa, garnished with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of Nanami Togarashi. A dollop of plain yogurt is also a nice touch.
- Enjoy!
📝 Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Nanami Togarashi.
- If you don't have sweet potatoes, you can substitute with butternut squash or carrots.
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier meal.
- Add a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 12g
Calcium: 150mg
