Chana Masala: Savory Indian Chickpeas

Name: Chana Masala: Savory Indian Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ginger (minced); 1 can diced tomatoes (400g); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste); 2 cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed, 400g each); 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

60 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Experience the robust flavours of India with this authentic chana masala recipe—spicy, tangy, and utterly satisfying.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chana masala, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a hearty dish made from chickpeas simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce. Known for its robust flavour profile, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and complex spices. This version of chana masala emphasizes the use of fresh spices and ingredients to enhance its traditional flavours. It's a dish that can be made quickly for a weeknight dinner or savoured slowly over a weekend lunch. Whether you're new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro, this chana masala recipe is straightforward and rewarding, offering a taste of India that can be recreated in your kitchen.

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the onions are well browned for extra flavour.

Add garlic and ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Incorporate spices

Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions and cook for 1 minute.

Pro tip: Toast the spices briefly to release their oils.

Add tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.

Pro tip: Crush the tomatoes with the back of a spoon for a smoother sauce.

Simmer chickpeas

Add the chickpeas and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Simmer longer for a thicker consistency.

Finish with lemon juice

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Pro tip: Add more lemon juice for extra tang.

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Tips & Tricks

Use canned chickpeas for convenience, but rinse them well before use.
For a creamier texture, simmer the chickpeas longer.
Adjust spices to your taste for more or less heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chana masala?

Chana masala is a popular Indian dish made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, resulting in a spicy and tangy flavour.

How many calories are in chana masala?

A single serving of this chana masala recipe contains about 290 calories.

Can I make chana masala ahead?

Yes, chana masala can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Is chana masala vegan?

Yes, this chana masala recipe is vegan, as it contains no animal products.

What do I serve with chana masala?

Chana masala is traditionally served with naan or basmati rice, and can be accompanied by raita or a simple salad.

How spicy is chana masala?

The spiciness of chana masala can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder used. This recipe provides a moderate level of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Chana masala is best served with warm naan or basmati rice, which complement its rich flavours perfectly. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of raita to cool the palate. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.