Chana Masala Recipe
Chana Masala Recipe: As a housewife and a food critic, I have always had a soft spot for the hearty and flavorful Chana Masala. This dish holds a special place in my heart and is often a staple in my household. The rich aroma of the spices wafts through the air and entices my senses, making me feel warm and cozy inside. The tender chickpeas, paired with the tangy tomato sauce and aromatic spices, is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
What is Chana Masala
Chana Masala, also known as Chole Masala, is a popular vegetarian dish from the Indian subcontinent. It is made from chickpeas that are simmered in a rich and spicy tomato sauce, flavored with aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger. This dish is traditionally served with naan, roti, or rice and is often enjoyed as a hearty and comforting meal.
Variations of Chana Masala
Amritsari Chana Masala – This variation is famous in the city of Amritsar, India and is known for its bold and spicy flavor. The chickpeas are cooked in a sauce that is made from a combination of spices, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, along with fresh ginger and garlic.
Punjabi Chana Masala – This variation is a classic Punjabi dish and is known for its rich and creamy tomato sauce. The chickpeas are cooked with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, and are simmered in a creamy tomato sauce until tender.
White Chana Masala – This variation is a lighter and healthier version of the classic Chana Masala. The chickpeas are simmered in a creamy tomato sauce that is made without any added spices or oils, making it a healthier option for those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake.
Nutrition – Chana Masala
Chana Masala is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Chickpeas, the main ingredient in this dish, are high in protein and fiber, which help to keep you full and satisfied for longer. This dish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, iron, and potassium. Additionally, the spices used in Chana Masala have a variety of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting immunity.
Chana Masala is a must-try dish for those who love bold and flavorful cuisine. Whether you prefer a spicy and tangy version, or a lighter and healthier variation, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and provide a nutritious and comforting meal. So, let’s start making this Chana Masala Recipe!
Step by Step Chana Masala Recipe
Chana Masala Recipe
Ingredients
To Pressure Cook Chickpeas
- 1 cup Chickpeas
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cloves
- 1 tea bag any (optional)
For Curry
- 2.5 tbsp oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 Onions
- 1 inch ginger
- 1 tomato
- 1 tsp chana masala powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi / dry fenugreek leaves
- 1 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp Red Chilli Powder
- coriander leaves / cilantro for garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
- Rinse chickpeas with water for 2-3 times and soak in water for overnight or 7-8 hours.
- Chickpeas will swell and double the size next day or after 7-8 hours.
- Finely chop, ginger, garlic, onions and tomato. You can also grind all these ingredients to make a thick fine paste. I like chopped onions in Chana Masala.
Cooking
To Pressure Cook Chickpeas
- Transfer soaked chickpeas in a pressure cooker and add water, salt and cloves.
- Pressure cook for 7-8 whistles over low flame or till chickpeas soften. Alternatively, you can cook chickpeas in your Instant Pot.
- Remove cloves after the pressure releases.
For Curry
- Now, heat oil in a pan or kadai or cookpot over medium flame and add chopped garlic and ginger. Saute till raw aroma goes away.
- Then, add chopped onions and saute till onions turn golden brown.
- Add 1 tsp cumin seeds, ¼ tsp turmeric powder, ½ tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp red chili powder and mix with the onions.
- Now, add chopped tomatoes or tomato puree and saute till oil separates from the masala.
- Add boiled chickpeas with chana masala powder and mix well with the onion tomato masala so that chickpeas are well coated.
- Add remaining water of boiled chickpeas and add garam masala and crushed kasoori methi in the chickpeas.
- Cover and simmer for 5-8 mins so that chickpeas soak the masala.
- Mash some chickpeas for thick curry consistency (optional). Switch off the flame.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with steamed rice or paratha or chapati.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Notes & Tips
- Choosing Chickpeas: Make sure that the chickpeas are fresh and within their shelf period. Old or aged chickpeas will take a lot of time to cook and also don’t taste good. You can also use 3 cups of canned chickpeas and add them once the tomatoes and ground spices are sautéed well.
- Dry Mango Powder: If you don’t have dry mango powder, can add dried pomegranate seeds, then add lime or lemon juice towards the end once the dish is complete.
- Cooking Chickpeas Soft? Add a pinch of baking soda in the water along with salt, also helps in the cooking process and the chickpeas become really soft when cooked.
- Ingredients & Equipment: Find these Ingredients & Equipment at Indian specialty food stores / Grocery Stores or Online Stores. For review of some stores, please refer to the Grocery Review Section on our Website.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
You might also be interested in:
26 Dishes from Maharashtra We All Love
23 Best Indian Soups for Winter
10 Classic South Indian Food Combinations We All Love
Characteristics of Malabar Cuisine
———————————————————————————————————
Foodcazt (www.foodcazt.com) is a Food Magazine. We help you discover food. Benefit from our Recipes, Reviews, Food Guides & Articles. We uncover trends, especially for Indian and Asian Cuisines. Please follow us to learn more. Uncover recipes. Learn about trends. Unearth unique restaurants. Find what moves you. Discover what inspires others. We uncover trends, especially for Indian Cuisine and Asian Cuisine.
It would mean the world to us, if you follow, like or subscribe on: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.
