Chana Masala is a classic North Indian dish made with chickpeas simmered in a fragrant tomato-based gravy infused with warm spices. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with flavor — perfect with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. The dish combines the earthiness of chickpeas with the depth of garam masala, cumin, and coriander, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that’s naturally vegan and protein-packed.
2. Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
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2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1-inch piece ginger, grated
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2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
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1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
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1 teaspoon cumin seeds
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1 teaspoon ground coriander
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1 teaspoon garam masala
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½ teaspoon turmeric powder
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½ teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt to taste
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½ cup water (more for desired consistency)
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Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
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Lemon wedges for serving
3. Instructions
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Prepare the base:
Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant. -
Cook the aromatics:
Add chopped onions and sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili, and cook for another minute. -
Add the spices:
Stir in ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and ground cumin. Mix for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their aroma. -
Add tomatoes:
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens into a sauce. -
Add chickpeas:
Add the chickpeas and salt, stirring to coat them well in the sauce. Pour in water and simmer for 10–15 minutes over medium-low heat until the flavors blend and the sauce thickens. -
Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 35–40 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 4 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Sugar: 6 g
7. Tips
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Thicker curry: Mash a few chickpeas with the back of a spoon during cooking to thicken the sauce naturally.
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Extra flavor: Add a dash of amchur (dried mango powder) or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy finish.
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Make ahead: Chana masala tastes even better the next day as the spices develop more depth.
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Serving suggestion: Enjoy with basmati rice, chapati, or naan; add a dollop of yogurt on the side for balance.
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Spice adjustment: Adjust chili powder and green chili to your preferred heat level.
8. Final Thought
This Chana Masala is a cozy, flavorful dish that celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients transformed by aromatic spices. With its bold flavor, tender chickpeas, and rich tomato gravy, it’s a staple that belongs in every home kitchen — easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for both weeknights and special meals.
