Chana Masala Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Chickpea Curry

Chana Masala is a classic Indian dish featuring tender chickpeas cooked in a spicy, tangy, and aromatic tomato-based gravy. This vegan and protein-packed recipe is perfect for a comforting meal with rice or flatbreads like naan or roti.

Ingredients

For the Curry:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder) or a squeeze of lemon
• Salt to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas
   • If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in water. Drain and pressure cook with fresh water and a pinch of salt until tender (about 3-4 whistles). If using canned chickpeas, rinse and set aside.
2. Cook the Base
   • Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf, and sauté until aromatic.
   • Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Spices
   • Lower the heat and mix in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes
   • Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine Chickpeas and Gravy
   • Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Stir well to coat them in the spice mixture.
   • Pour in 1 cup of water (or chickpea cooking liquid) and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Finish with Garam Masala
   • Stir in garam masala and amchur (or lemon juice) for a tangy kick. Adjust salt as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve
   • Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

Tips for the Perfect Chana Masala

• Texture: For a thicker gravy, mash a few chickpeas with a spoon during simmering.
• Variations: Add diced potatoes or spinach for a twist.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with basmati rice and a side of raita for a complete meal.