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–+ servings

Homemade Chana Masala

This aromatic chana masala brings the flavors of India right to your kitchen with tender chickpeas simmered in a richly spiced tomato and onion gravy. A perfect plant-based dinner option that's both wholesome and bursting with authentic flavor.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 413
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans 15 oz each chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes chopped
  • 1 inch fresh ginger peeled
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1-2 green chilies adjust according to heat preference
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or red chili powder for more heat
  • ½ teaspoon amchur dried mango powder or juice of half a lemon
  • 1 cup water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the aromatic base by grinding onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, and green chili together in a food processor until you have a smooth paste.
  2. Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Allow them to sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the onion-tomato paste to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture darkens and the raw smell disappears.
  4. Stir in ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their flavors.
  5. Add the drained chickpeas and mix well to coat with the spice mixture.
  6. Pour in water and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Mash some chickpeas against the side of the pan with your spoon to thicken the gravy slightly.
  8. Add garam masala and amchur (or lemon juice). Simmer uncovered for 3-5 more minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaf and cinnamon stick before serving.
  10. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 413kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 9gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 525mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g
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