Chana Masala
Chana Masala is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits. This chickpea-based curry is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks. With its aromatic spices and comforting texture, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and learn how to make this culinary delight from scratch!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, rinsed and drained)
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1-2 green chilies, slit
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 10g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Stir in the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, and salt; mix well.
- Add the cooked chickpeas and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes for convenience. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of green chilies or omit them altogether. Additionally, canned chickpeas can save time without sacrificing taste.
Serving and Pairings
Chana Masala pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or roti. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber raita or a simple salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Chana Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much oil can make the dish greasy.
- Not cooking the spices long enough can lead to raw flavors.
- Overcooking chickpeas can make them mushy.
- Skipping the garnishing can affect the presentation.
- Not adjusting salt can result in blandness.
Helpful Tips
- For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of asafoetida.
- Let the dish sit for a while before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Adjust spice levels according to your taste.
FAQs
What is Chana Masala traditionally served with?
Chana Masala is typically served with rice, naan, or roti. It’s a versatile dish that complements various Indian breads and grains perfectly.
Can I make Chana Masala vegan?
Yes, Chana Masala is inherently vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that all your ingredients, like spices and oils, are vegan-friendly.
How spicy is Chana Masala?
The spice level of Chana Masala can vary depending on the number of green chilies and spices used. You can easily adjust the heat to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the recipe.
How long does Chana Masala last in the fridge?
Properly stored, Chana Masala can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container for best results.
Conclusion
Chana Masala is not just a flavorful dish; it’s a delightful experience that encapsulates the essence of Indian cooking. With its rich spices and hearty chickpeas, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every bite!
Chana Masala
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes pureed
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1-2 green chilies slit
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Stir in the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, and salt; mix well.
- Add the cooked chickpeas and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander.
