Flavorful chickpea curry cooked in a spiced tomato-onion gravy.

Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

A popular North Indian vegetarian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-onion gravy.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp chana masala powder (store-bought or homemade blend)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or 1 cup tomato puree)
• 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas)
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp amchur powder (dried mango powder) or 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Ginger juliennes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil/ghee in a pot or pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds; once they splutter, add the chopped onion.
2. Sauté onions until golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the spice powders: ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, chana masala powder, and garam masala. Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the gravy (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas, water/broth, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Mash some chickpeas against the side of the pot with a spoon to thicken the gravy slightly.
8. Stir in the amchur powder or lemon juice.
9. Check seasoning and adjust salt if necessary.
10. Serve: Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and ginger juliennes (if using). Serve hot with rice, naan, roti, or bhature (puffy fried bread).

### What makes it special?:*

Chana Masala is a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed vegetarian staple. Its tangy and spicy gravy, combined with tender chickpeas, makes it incredibly satisfying and versatile. It's a common feature in Indian restaurants and homes worldwide.