Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry)

Name: Chana Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 (14.5 oz) can undrained diced tomatoes; Lime wedges; 15 ounces of drained and rinsed chickpea; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 chopped large onion; 3 cloves of minced garlic; 1 chopped large red bell pepper; 1 tablespoon of grated fresh root ginger; 1 cup of vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon of garam masala; 1 teaspoon of cumin; 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric; 1/4 teaspoon of clove; 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder

This Chana Masala recipe is chickpeas dish immersed in a rich blend of spices and tomatoes, creating a harmonious and comforting experience for the taste buds.

Indian Cuisine

January 22, 2024

Difficulty Easy

Servings 4 people

Preparation 15 mins

Cooking 60 mins

Total 75 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

15 ounces of drained and rinsed chickpea
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 chopped large onion
3 cloves of minced garlic
1 chopped large red bell pepper
1 tablespoon of grated fresh root ginger
1 cup of vegetable broth
1 tablespoon of garam masala
1 teaspoon of cumin
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
1/4 teaspoon of clove
1/4 teaspoon of chili powder
1 (14.5 oz) can undrained diced tomatoes
Lime wedges

Directions

Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, cloves, and chili powder. Stir to coat the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and deepen.
Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the chickpeas and simmer for 15 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with rice, naan, or your favorite accompaniments.
Squeeze lime wedges over individual servings for an extra citrusy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Chana Masala

Serves 4

Amount Per Serving

Calories210

% Daily Value*

Protein 10 g20%

Total Fat 5 g6.4%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Soak the chickpeas. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor. Toasting whole spices before grinding can enhance their flavor.
Tailor the heat to your preference by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh green chilies.
Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference. Add a dollop of plain yogurt for a touch of creaminess.
Use ripe tomatoes for a naturally sweet and tangy base, or canned tomatoes for convenience without compromising on taste.
Adjust the consistency according to your preference by adding more or less water. Some prefer a thicker gravy, while others like it more soup-like.
Allow the chana masala to simmer slowly to develop depth of flavor. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes.
Add garam masala towards the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic flavors.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the dish and balance the flavors.
Get creative with your toppings! Sprinkle with chopped nuts, chopped fresh herbs, or even a dollop of mango chutney for a burst of sweetness.
Leftovers store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Rate This Recipe

Chana Masala, this vegetarian dish is a staple of Indian cuisine. This classic dish is infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, creating a savory and tangy taste. The chickpeas are cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.

From the smoldering heat of chilies to the earthy warmth of cumin, each bite is a journey through aromatic world of Indian culinary. Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or new to its delicious offerings, Chana Masala is a comforting and tasty choice for a wholesome meal. So crank up the heat, gather your spices, and prepare to conquer the art of the ultimate Chana Masala.

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

Mixing Bowls

Cutting Board

Chef Pan

Chef Knife

Origins of The Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a dish born from necessity, a resourceful transformation of chickpeas into a meal. This beloved dish has roots in North Indian and Pakistani culinary traditions, where chickpeas, also known as chana, are a staple ingredient.

The combination of chickpeas with a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, gives Chana Masala its distinctive flavor.

Variations of Chana Masala

This Chana Masala recipe is just a canvas for your creativity! While the suggested spices offer a delightful base, let's explore some exciting variations to truly personalize your flavor journey:

Add more chili powder or add a chopped fresh green chili or jalapeno for a searing kick.
Infuse a teaspoon of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a rich, earthy depth that complements the chickpeas.
Add a touch of allspice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of island warmth.
Swap regular garam masala for smoky or Kashmiri versions for subtle variations in warmth and sweetness.
For a deeper cumin essence, toast the ground cumin in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the other spices.
Add a whole green cardamom pod or a pinch of ground cardamom for a touch of citrusy complexity.
Double the grated ginger for a potent, invigorating kick.
Squeeze in a wedge of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, vibrant finish.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, parsley, or mint for a burst of green goodness.
Substitute half the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
Add a chopped mango or a spoonful of mango chutney for a touch of sweetness and fruity complexity.
Roast cauliflower florets or sweet potatoes and add them to the pot for a boost of texture and flavor.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules! Taste as you go, adjust spices to your preference, and don't be afraid to experiment. This is your Chana Masala adventure, so make it your own!

So grab your spice drawer, unleash your inner culinary explorer, and conquer the art of the ultimate personalized Chana Masala – a flavor masterpiece waiting to be born in your own kitchen!