Quick Turkey And Chickpea Curry

A great way to use leftover turkey is to make turkey and chickpea curry. A perfect blend of flavours, savoury goodness of turkey with the creamy, nutty texture of chickpeas, all simmered in a fragrant medley of spices that will tantalise your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 4 tsp Medium Curry Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 2 tbsp Mango Chutney
• 2 tbsp Tomato Puree
• 1 tin Chopped Tomatoes
• 2 tbsp Creme Fraiche
• 2 Stock Cubes
• 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
• 2 small Onions
• 1 tin Chickpeas
• 500 g Leftover Turkey
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil

How to make leftover turkey curry with chickpeas

Fry the onions in the oil on a medium heat for about 8 minutes until soft.

Add the turkey, chickpeas, onion powder, garlic powder and curry powder.

Add a little boiled water to loosen the mixture with the balsamic. Cook for 2 minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes and tomatoes puree.

Stir and add a little boiled water if it’s too think.

Add the stock cubes and cooked for 8 to 10 minutes.

Add the creme fraiche and heat through.

Serve with your favourite side dish.

Serving suggestions

This versatile Turkey and Chickpea Curry is not only delicious but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to suit any preference or dietary need. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your curry:

1. Grains: Serve your curry over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, brown rice for a whole-grain option, or even quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. These grains will soak up the curry’s flavors and add a satisfying texture.
2. Bread: Accompany your curry with warm naan bread, roti, or pita to scoop up the sauce. For a gluten-free option, try serving with papadums or gluten-free flatbread.
3. Vegetables: Brighten your plate with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or a mix of bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
4. Greens: A crisp side salad with a lemony dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the curry. Consider greens such as arugula, spinach, or a simple cucumber salad.
5. Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a cucumber raita can add a cooling element to the dish, which is especially welcome if you’ve spiced up your curry.
6. Pickles and Chutneys: Serve with a selection of Indian pickles (achaar) or chutneys, such as mango or tamarind, for an extra zing that cuts through the richness of the curry.
7. Lentils: For an extra dose of protein and fiber, offer a side of dal (lentils) to complement the curry’s textures and flavors.
8. Potatoes: Roasted or boiled potatoes seasoned with turmeric and mustard seeds can serve as a hearty side that melds well with the curry’s spices.
9. Rice Alternatives: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute for traditional rice and blends seamlessly with the curry.
10. Legumes: A side of sautéed green beans or a chickpea salad can add a lovely crunch and freshness to your meal.
11. Quinoa: My favourite and a lighter side dish than bread or rice.

Remember to garnish your curry with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and a squeeze of lime juice for an added burst of freshness. These sides not only add variety to your meal but also ensure there’s something for everyone at the table to enjoy.

Storing your curry

To store your turkey and chickpea curry, first, allow the curry to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the curry into airtight containers.

You can use glass containers, which help retain flavours and are microwave-friendly for easy reheating, or BPA-free plastic containers if you prefer.

Refrigerator

Place the containers in the refrigerator, where the curry can be kept for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store the curry for a longer period, it can be frozen.

Freezer

Ensure the containers are freezer-safe and leave a little space at the top as the curry will expand when frozen. Frozen curry can last for about 1-2 months.

To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and then gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Always make sure the curry is piping hot throughout before serving.