π± Authentic Chana Masala Recipe β A Protein-Packed Delight
Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry) is a beloved North Indian dish, known for its rich flavors and health benefits. This protein-rich, spicy, and tangy curry is perfect for a wholesome meal, served with naan, roti, or rice.
π₯ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Bowl or 200g)
β Calories: ~270 kcal
β Protein: ~12g π₯
β Carbohydrates: ~35g π
β Fats: ~7g π₯
β Fiber: ~10g πΎ
π Ingredients
π° For Cooking Chickpeas:
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1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
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3 cups water
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Β½ tsp salt π§
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1 bay leaf π
π For the Masala (Gravy):
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2 tbsp oil (vegetable/mustard) π«
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1 large onion, finely chopped π§
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2 medium tomatoes, pureed π
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1 green chili, finely chopped πΆ
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1 tsp ginger-garlic paste π§
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Β½ tsp turmeric powder β¨
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1 tsp cumin seeds
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1 tsp coriander powder
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1 tsp cumin powder
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1 tsp red chili powder π₯
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Β½ tsp garam masala
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Β½ tsp amchur powder (dry mango, optional) π
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Salt to taste π§
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Β½ cup water (adjust as needed) π§
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Fresh coriander leaves for garnish πΏ
π¨βπ³ Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chickpeas
1οΈβ£ If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in water.
2οΈβ£ Drain, add fresh water, and pressure cook with salt and bay leaf for 6β7 whistles (or until soft).
3οΈβ£ If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain well.
Step 2: Making the Masala Base
1οΈβ£ Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2οΈβ£ Add chopped onions and sautΓ© until golden brown. π§
3οΈβ£ Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook until fragrant.
4οΈβ£ Add tomato puree and cook for 5β7 minutes until oil separates. π
5οΈβ£ Mix in turmeric, coriander, cumin, and red chili powder; cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cooking the Chana Masala
1οΈβ£ Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well.
2οΈβ£ Pour in water (adjust consistency) and simmer for 10 minutes.
3οΈβ£ Stir in garam masala and amchur powder for extra flavor.
4οΈβ£ Let it cook for 2 more minutes, then turn off the heat.
Step 4: Serving
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Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. πΏ
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Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, naan, or roti. ππ
π Health Benefits of Chana Masala
π₯ Protein-Rich: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein, ideal for vegetarians.
πΎ High in Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
πͺ Iron & Folate: Helps in blood formation and energy levels.
π₯ Low in Fat: A healthy, guilt-free meal option.
π― Expert Tips for the Best Chana Masala
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For extra flavor: Add 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the end.
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For a creamier texture: Blend some chickpeas before adding them to the curry.
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For restaurant-style taste: Try the “dhungar” method β place a piece of burning charcoal in a bowl, set it inside the pan, and cover for 5 minutes for a smoky flavor.
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Spice level: Adjust red chili powder and green chilies as per taste.
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Tanginess: No amchur powder? Use lemon juice or a splash of tamarind paste.
π½ Variations & Serving Ideas
π With Basmati Rice β Serve with fragrant jeera rice for a classic combo.
π With Naan or Roti β Soft, buttery naan enhances the flavors.
π₯ With Aloo (Potatoes) β Add boiled potatoes for a heartier dish.
π₯¬ With Spinach (Palak Chana Masala) β Stir in chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
π₯ Why Youβll Love This Recipe
β Easy to Make β Simple steps, quick cooking.
β One-Pot Dish β Less cleanup, more taste!
β Perfect for Meal Prep β Tastes even better the next day!
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious Chana Masala, a perfect blend of spice and comfort! πβ¨
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