Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry

When the weather cools and cozy meals take center stage, there’s nothing better than a bowl of warm, flavorful curry to nourish both body and soul. This Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry is one of those dishes that proves healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying. Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients like creamy coconut milk, protein-rich chickpeas, and naturally sweet pumpkin purée, it’s the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrient-dense goodness.

The real magic comes from the spices — turmeric, cumin, coriander, and a hint of cayenne — which not only create a rich depth of flavor but also bring powerful health benefits like anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties. Paired with sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of tomato paste for brightness, this curry develops layers of flavor in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

We love serving this curry over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm, pillowy naan for a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. It’s naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, so it works beautifully for a variety of dietary needs. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your routine without sacrificing taste or texture.

Whether you’re looking for a nourishing dinner option or a cozy dish to share with friends, this Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry

Serves: 4-6 | Time: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée

• 1 (15-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk

• 2 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water, adjust for desired thickness)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of 1/2 lime (or lemon)

• 3-4 teaspoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• optional: 4 cups of fresh baby spinach

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics:
   Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic (and ginger if using) and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Bloom the spices:
   Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cayenne. Cook for 30–60 seconds, letting the spices toast slightly for deeper flavor.

3. Add the base ingredients:
   Stir in the tomato paste and pumpkin purée. Cook for 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly.

4. Create the curry:
   Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then add the chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Simmer:
   Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld together.

6. Add spinach: if including spinach add and cook until wilted

7. Finish:
   Stir in lime juice, maple syrup, and adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve:
   Ladle the curry over fluffy rice or serve with warm naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Health and Wellness Benefits of Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry

This Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry isn’t just a warm, comforting meal — it’s a nutrient-packed dish that supports your health and wellness on multiple levels. Combining whole, plant-based ingredients with aromatic spices, this recipe provides a balanced mix of fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Let’s break down the wellness benefits of its star ingredients:

1. Chickpeas for Plant-Based Protein and Fiber
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in plant-based protein, they help support muscle health, repair tissues, and keep you feeling satisfied longer. The high fiber content aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut microbiome, and helps regulate blood sugar levels — an especially important benefit for those looking to stabilize energy throughout the day.

2. Pumpkin for Vitamins and Antioxidants
Canned pumpkin brings beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, immune support, and skin vitality. It’s also rich in vitamin C and potassium, helping boost the immune system while supporting cardiovascular health. Pumpkin’s natural sweetness adds depth of flavor without relying on added sugars, making it a heart-healthy choice.

3. Coconut Milk for Healthy Fats
Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of healthy fat metabolized quickly by the body for energy. While it adds rich creaminess, these fats can also support brain health, hormone production, and help maintain satiety, making this curry both indulgent and nourishing.

4. Onions, Garlic, and Spices for Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Onions and garlic contain compounds like allicin and quercetin, known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, a star spice in this curry, offers curcumin — a powerful antioxidant studied for its role in reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and even improving cognitive function. Combined with cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne, these spices enhance flavor while delivering natural wellness benefits.

5. Balanced Nutrition for Plant-Based Living
This curry offers a satisfying blend of macronutrients: protein from chickpeas, complex carbs from vegetables, and healthy fats from coconut milk. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Paired with brown rice or quinoa, it becomes a complete meal with all essential amino acids for plant-based eaters.

6. Mind-Body Wellness through Comfort Food
Finally, there’s the emotional wellness aspect. Comforting, warm, and aromatic meals like this curry can support mental health by reducing stress through nourishing rituals and mindful eating.

Together, these ingredients make this Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry not only a flavorful dish but also a wellness-focused recipe that nourishes your body from the inside out.

Health & Wellness Checklist – Vegan Coconut Pumpkin Chickpea Curry

🌱 Plant-Based Nutrition

• 100% vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free

• Balanced macronutrients: protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbs

🥣 Key Ingredient Benefits

• Chickpeas: Plant-based protein, fiber for digestion, supports stable energy and satiety

• Pumpkin: Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants

• Coconut Milk: Healthy fats (MCTs) for brain health, energy, and hormone balance

• Onions & Garlic: Immune-boosting compounds, natural anti-inflammatory properties

• Turmeric & Spices: Curcumin and antioxidants to reduce inflammation and support joint health

💚 Wellness Support

• Aids digestion and gut health

• Helps regulate blood sugar levels

• Supports heart health and immune function

• Anti-inflammatory properties for overall wellness

🧘 Mind-Body Benefits

• Comforting, warming meal perfect for stress relief

• Supports mindful eating with rich, aromatic flavors

🍽 Easy to Adapt

• Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or gluten-free grains for a complete meal

• Meal-prep friendly and freezer safe