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Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a flavorful and hearty Indian chickpea curry rich in spices and tangy tomato sauce, perfect as a comforting vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder) or lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add cumin seeds; let them splutter.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and oil starts separating.
  5. Stir in coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt; cook for another minute.
  6. Add cooked chickpeas and mix well.
  7. Pour in water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to blend and sauce to thicken.
  8. Sprinkle garam masala and amchur powder or lemon juice; mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or flatbread.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving, or garnish with finely chopped onions and lemon wedges.