Punjabi Chole – Spicy North Indian Chickpea Curry

 Punjabi Chole

Punjabi Chole is a hearty North Indian chickpea curry made with tender chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

- 2 cups cooked chickpeas

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped

- 1 green chilli, chopped

- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

- 2 tbsp oil

- 1 tsp cumin seeds

- 1 tsp coriander powder

- 1 tsp cumin powder

- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder

- ½ tsp turmeric powder

- 1 tsp garam masala

- 1 tsp amchur powder

- ½ tsp black pepper powder

- 1 black tea bag

- 1½ cups water

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Make Punjabi Chole

1. Prepare the Chickpeas

If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender. Keep the cooked chickpeas aside.

2. Prepare the Masala

Heat oil in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.

Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilli. Cook for another minute.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Add the tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, chilli powder, and salt.

Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the oil begins to separate from the masala.

4. Add the Chickpeas

Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well.

For a deeper color, add the black tea bag while simmering. Add water and cook on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes.

Remove the tea bag before serving.

5. Finish the Curry

Add amchur powder, black pepper, and garam masala. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.

Garnish with fresh coriander.

Tips

- Slightly mash a few chickpeas into the gravy for a thicker texture.

- Let the curry simmer slowly so the chickpeas absorb the spices.

- Adjust the chilli according to your taste.

- A little lemon juice can be added just before serving for extra freshness.

Serving Suggestion

Serve Punjabi Chole hot with bhatura, puri, roti, naan, or steamed rice. It also pairs wonderfully with sliced onions and lemon wedges.

Final Thoughts

Punjabi Chole is a comforting and flavorful Indian curry that turns simple chickpeas into a satisfying meal. It is especially delicious when served hot with freshly prepared Indian bread.