Chana Masala, also called Chole Masala, is a famous North Indian dish made of chickpeas (chana) cooked in a spicy, tangy tomato-onion gravy (masala). It’s is usually eaten with bhature (deep-fried bread), roti, or basmati rice. It tastes earthy and has a unique tang. Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based energy, so this dish is not only a party for your taste buds but also a healthy choice for lunch.
Chana Masala
Ingredients
- 2 cups of chickpeas soaked overnight
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes finely chopped
- 2 green chilies slit
- 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon of Chana Masala powder available at Indian grocery stores
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Start by boiling the soaked chickpeas in a pressure cooker or a large pot until they’re soft and easily mashable.
- Heat oil in a pan and add the finely chopped onions. Sauté them until they turn a golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies to the pan and stir until the raw smell disappears.
- Now it’s time to add the tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, and the star of the show, the Chana Masala powder. Cook this mixture until the oil starts separating from the masala.
- Add the boiled chickpeas to the pan and mix well so that they are coated with the masala. Add some water and salt, then let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- Garnish your dish with fresh coriander leaves.
Variations to Explore
While the traditional it is a masterpiece in itself, here are a few variations to help you explore the versatility of this delightful recipe.
- Spinach: Add a cup of finely chopped spinach to the masala after the tomatoes are cooked. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes your dish even more nutritious.
- Sweet Potato: Change up your Chana Masala by replacing half of the chickpeas with diced sweet potatoes. This will give your dish a sweet and spicy twist. Make sure you boil the sweet potatoes at the same time as the beans.
- Coconut: If you like creamy curries, add a half cup of coconut milk after the chickpeas to make Chana Masala that is extremely rich.
Chana Masala is a food that is tasty, healthy, and can be used in many different ways. A is the dish to make if you want to switch up your lunch routine or just want the warmth of a warm, spicy curry. It’s not just a meal; it’s a trip of tastes that starts with a simple chickpea and ends with a symphony of tastes. Try it, and the magic of this rich Indian treat will make your day brighter.
Enjoy!
