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Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry)
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A quick and flavorful Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry) recipe that combines tender chickpeas with a rich blend of spices, tomatoes, and onions. This vibrant, plant-based curry is packed with protein and fiber, offering a wholesome, comforting meal with authentic Indian flavors, perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or mustard oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies, cooking for about a minute until fragrant.
  2. Toast Your Spices: Add cumin seeds to the pan and let them sizzle until aromatic. Then add turmeric, coriander, and garam masala powders. Stir constantly to prevent burning and create a deeply flavorful spice base.
  3. Build the Sauce: Add chopped tomatoes or canned tomato puree to the spices. Cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sauce edges, enhancing richness.
  4. Add Chickpeas and Simmer: Add the drained chickpeas to the sauce. Pour in about 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes. This allows the chickpeas to absorb the spices and the sauce to thicken.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped cilantro. This adds brightness and a fresh herbal note to the curry. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices or small quantities of pre-ground spices for the best flavor.
  • Don’t skip sautéing onions properly; it unlocks the natural sweetness crucial for a balanced curry.
  • Simmer the curry low and slow to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
  • Adjust the consistency by adding water or broth as needed.
  • Check seasoning towards the end, balancing with salt and lemon juice for optimal taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chana Masala, Indian Chickpea Curry, Vegan Curry, Gluten Free Indian Recipe, Healthy Indian Dish

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/chana-masala-indian-chickpea-curry/