Simply Crockpot • Vegan
This crockpot chickpea tikka masala is creamy, cozy, and packed with bold Indian-inspired flavor.
It’s an easy dump-and-go slow cooker dinner made with pantry staples, then finished with coconut milk for a rich,
restaurant-style sauce—without dairy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Big flavor with simple pantry ingredients.
- Protein-packed and naturally dairy-free.
- Perfect for meal prep, bowls, and leftovers.
- Dump, cook, and finish—no babysitting required.
Ingredients
- 3 cans (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk (full-fat preferred)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (finish)
Ingredient notes:
• Full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest sauce.
• Spinach is optional but adds color + extra veggies.
• Want heat? Add ¼–½ tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Instructions
- Add chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, ginger, and tomato paste to the crockpot.
- Stir in garam masala, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in coconut milk and spinach (if using). Cover and cook 10–15 minutes.
- Finish with lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt/spice as needed.
Tip: For a thicker sauce, crack the lid for the last 20 minutes on HIGH.
Tips & Variations
- Serve it: Over rice, quinoa, or with naan/flatbread.
- Add veggies: Cauliflower florets or bell peppers work great.
- Extra protein: Stir in cubed baked tofu at the end.
- More “buttery”: Add 1 tbsp vegan butter when you add coconut milk.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk.
FAQ
Is this spicy?
It’s flavorful and mild. Add cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want heat.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less creamy.
What pairs well with this?
Rice, quinoa, naan, cucumber salad, or roasted veggies all work beautifully.
More Easy Vegan Crockpot Recipes
Looking for more plant-based slow cooker dinners? Browse our full collection of vegan recipes.