Chana Masala is a flavorful and hearty dish that originates from Indian cuisine. This spicy, tangy, and aromatic chickpea curry is a staple in many households. With a blend of fragrant spices and tender chickpeas, it’s a comforting meal that can be enjoyed with rice or flatbread. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned cook, this homemade Chana Masala recipe is simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or coconut)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in minced garlic, ginger, and green chili, and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate. Stir in coriander powder, turmeric, ground cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Simmer the Chickpeas: Add chickpeas and mix well. Pour in water and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finish with Garam Masala: Stir in garam masala and lemon juice. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The spices used in Chana Masala create a rich and deep taste.
- Nutritious & Healthy: Chickpeas are loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps make this dish accessible for everyone.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well, making it great for batch cooking.
- Family-Friendly Meal: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a wholesome dish for all.
My Tips for the Best Chana Masala
- Use freshly ground spices for a more intense and authentic flavor.
- If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
- For extra creaminess, mash a few chickpeas while cooking.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance the flavor.
How to Serve Chana Masala
Chana Masala pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also enjoy it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.
Side Dishes for Chana Masala
- Garlic naan
- Jeera rice
- Cucumber raita
- Mango chutney
Chana Masala Variations
- Creamy Version: Add coconut milk for a milder taste.
- Spicier Version: Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
- Dry Chana Masala: Reduce the amount of water for a thicker consistency.
Enjoy this homemade Chana Masala, a delightful and comforting dish packed with bold flavors and nutritional benefits of chickpeas!
The Best Homemade Chana Masala Recipe
Description
Discover how to make authentic Channa Masala with this easy recipe. You'll savor every bite of this flavorful, hearty dish that celebrates Indian cuisine!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 570mg24%
- Potassium 360mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 6g12%
- Calcium 50 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Time: 30 minutes total (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)
- Cooking Temperature: Medium heat
- Estimated Cost: Budget-friendly (~$5 for 4 servings)
- Number of Servings: 4
