Quick and Spicy Chana Masala: 30-Minute Vegetarian Indian Curry

Chana Masala: Easy Indian Chickpea Curry

Chana masala is a classic, hearty Indian dinner that pairs tender chickpeas with a fragrant tomato-onion gravy—perfect for warming up any weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Chana Masala Recipe

• Bold, comforting flavors from fresh ginger, garlic, and spices
• Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for quick vegetarian dinners
• High in protein and fiber thanks to nutrient-packed chickpeas
• Adaptable: go mild or fiery by adjusting chili powder

Ingredients for Restaurant-Style Chana Masala

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 (15-oz) can, drained)
• 1 green chile, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges (optional)

How to Make Chana Masala at Home

1. Blend the base: In a food processor, combine onion, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and green chile. Grind into a smooth paste.
2. Sauté spices: Heat oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add cumin seeds and cook until they sizzle, about 30 seconds.
3. Cook the paste: Stir in the blended mixture. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the tomato-onion gravy.
4. Add dry spices: Sprinkle in coriander powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes.
5. Simmer chickpeas: Add chickpeas and ½ cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Finish with garam masala: Uncover, stir in garam masala and salt. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the curry thickens.
7. Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chana Masala

• Use canned chickpeas for convenience, or soak and boil dried beans for deeper flavor.
• Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if tomatoes are too tart.
• For a creamier texture, mash a few chickpeas against the side of the pan.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm rotis or naan bread
• Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice
• Cucumber raita or fresh salad

Enjoy your homemade chana masala.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes