Chana Masala (Spiced Chickpea Curry)

 

Chana Masala (Spiced Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala is a hearty, protein-rich Indian dish made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It's easy to make and pairs well with rice or roti.  

Ingredients 

- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)  

- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil)  

- 1 tsp cumin seeds  

- 1 onion, finely chopped  

- 2 tomatoes, pureed  

- 3 cloves garlic, minced  

- 1-inch ginger, grated  

- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)  

- 1 tsp turmeric powder  

- 1 tsp coriander powder  

- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)  

- 1 tsp garam masala  

- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)  

- ½ tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi, optional)  

- ½ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)  

- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)  

#### **Instructions:**  

1. **Heat the oil:** In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.  

2. **Sauté aromatics:** Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then, add garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for another minute.  

3. **Cook the tomatoes:** Stir in the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.  

4. **Add chickpeas:** Mix in the cooked chickpeas and stir well to coat with the spices.  

5. **Simmer:** Pour in water, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.  

6. **Finish & serve:** Stir in garam masala and dried fenugreek leaves. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.  

Enjoy with steamed rice, roti, or naan! Let me know if you’d like another recipe.