Chana Masala Recipe | Just In 5 Steps. -

Chana masala, also known as chole masala, is a popular North Indian dish that features chickpeas (chana) cooked in a flavorful and aromatic spiced tomato-based gravy. It is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish that has gained worldwide recognition for its rich and comforting flavors.

To prepare chana masala, chickpeas are soaked overnight and then cooked until tender. The dish typically starts with a base of onions, ginger, and garlic sautéed in oil. A blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, is added to create a fragrant and robust flavor profile. Tomatoes are then added to the mixture, creating a luscious gravy that coats the chickpeas.

The dish can be customized to individual preferences, with some variations incorporating additional ingredients like green chilies, amchoor (dried mango powder), or kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to enhance the taste. Chana masala is often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti.

Beyond its delicious taste, chana masala offers several health benefits. Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals. The blend of spices used in chana masala, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Whether enjoyed at home or in Indian restaurants around the world, chana masala continues to be a beloved and comforting dish, showcasing the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine.

Chana Masala, also known as chickpea curry, is a delicious and popular Indian dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It’s made with chickpeas cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and served with rice, naan bread, or roti. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Chana Masala:

Make Chana Masala Just 5 Steps:

Step 1: Soaking the Chickpeas (8-10 hours)

Start by soaking 1 cup of dried chickpeas in water overnight or for at least 8-10 hours. This process helps soften the chickpeas and reduces the cooking time.

Step 2: Preparing the Ingredients chana masala

Gather the following ingredients:
1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked and drained)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion (finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped)
2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Step 3: Cooking the Chickpeas

In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the soaked and drained chickpeas along with enough water to cover them. Cook for about 20-25 minutes in a pressure cooker or 1-2 hours in a regular pot until the chickpeas are tender and cooked through. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Making the Chana Masala

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
Add chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Reduce the heat to low and add turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Mix well and cook for a minute to toast the spices, releasing their flavors.
Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and mix them gently with the spice mixture. Make sure all the chickpeas are coated well.
Season with salt according to your taste. Stir everything together, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
If the mixture appears dry, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.
Taste the Chana Masala and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more red chili powder for extra spiciness or garam masala for a stronger flavor.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the heat.

Step 5: Serving

Chana Masala is typically served hot with rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.
Enjoy the flavorful Chana Masala as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Indian delicacies.

With these steps, you can make a delicious Chana Masala right at home. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, and feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) or amchur powder (dried mango powder) for added complexity. Happy cooking!