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Chana Masala

Chana Masala
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This easy Chana Masala recipe delivers a bold, comforting blend of spices and tender chickpeas simmered in a rich tomato gravy. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike, it’s quick to prepare using pantry staples and offers a wholesome, flavorful meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (canned or soaked dried)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds or 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 1–2 green chilies, slit (optional)
  • 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
  • ½ cup water (adjust as needed for gravy consistency)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onions, mince the garlic and ginger, and dice the tomatoes if fresh. Rinse and drain canned chickpeas or soak and cook dried chickpeas until tender.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds or ground cumin and let them sizzle briefly. Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Mix in ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to toast the spices slightly. Add the tomatoes and cook until they break down into a smooth, thick sauce.
  4. Incorporate Chickpeas and Simmer: Add the chickpeas along with water to achieve desired gravy consistency. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Adjust salt and spice to taste.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in chopped fresh cilantro for brightness and color.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for better flavor.
  • Cook onions slowly to develop sweetness.
  • Simmer the dish to intensify flavors.
  • Adjust acidity with tomato quantity or lemon juice if desired.
  • Customize heat levels by varying chili powder and green chilies.

Nutrition

Keywords: chana masala, chickpea curry, Indian recipe, vegetarian curry, vegan curry, gluten free, easy dinner, spicy chickpeas

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