Kabuli Chana Masala Recipe

Kabuli Chana Masala Recipe

Kabuli Chana Masala, often known as Chickpea Curry, is a heartwarming and popular dish in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and nutritious profile. This dish is a wonderful blend of Kabuli chana (white chickpeas) cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-based sauce, enriched with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s a versatile dish that represents the essence of Indian cooking, showcasing the complexity of flavors that can be achieved with simple ingredients.

This dish not only offers a delightful taste experience but also provides a host of health benefits, thanks to the high protein content of chickpeas. Ideal for any meal, Kabuli Chana Masala can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or naan, making it a perfect option for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe promises to guide you through making a delicious and authentic Kabuli Chana Masala at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried Kabuli chana (white chickpeas), soaked overnight
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (or as per your taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups water (for pressure cooking)
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
  • 1-inch ginger, julienned (for garnish)

Step-wise Process

  1. Prepare Chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. Transfer to a pressure cooker, add 2 cups of water and salt, and cook until they are soft and tender (about 4-5 whistles on medium flame).
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking until the raw smell disappears.
  3. Add Tomato Puree: Incorporate the tomato puree into the pan and cook until the oil starts separating from the sides.
  4. Spice It Up: Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt to the mixture, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Combine Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas along with their cooking liquid to the pan. Mix well, ensuring the chickpeas are coated with the masala.
  6. Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle garam masala over the curry and mix gently. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves and match stick ginger.

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

Time Required to make Kabuli Chana Masala

  • Prep Time: 8 hours (includes soaking time for chickpeas) + 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes

Important Points

  • Ensure chickpeas are soaked well overnight for them to cook properly and evenly.
  • Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance.
  • The consistency of the gravy can be adjusted by varying the amount of water used for cooking the chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

Kabuli Chana Masala

Serve Kabuli Chana Masala hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or any Indian bread like roti, naan, or paratha. A side of cucumber raita or plain yogurt complements the spicy flavors of the dish beautifully.

To Sum Up…

Kabuli Chana Masala is a flavorful, nutritious, and comforting dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. With its rich gravy, tender chickpeas, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. By following this detailed recipe, you can easily bring a touch of India’s culinary tradition to your home cooking. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish and savor the delicious results with your loved ones.

CLICK HERE for some more delicious Lentils and Dal Recipes.



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