Sukha Kala Chana

Sukha Kala Chana is a delightful dish commonly prepared during the Navratras fasting period, offering a wholesome and protein-rich option for those observing dietary restrictions. Made from black chickpeas cooked with minimal spices and seasonings, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying. The simplicity of Sukha Kala Chana allows the natural taste of the chickpeas to shine through, making it a perfect accompaniment to other fasting-friendly foods like sabudana khichdi or kuttu ki roti. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, Sukha Kala Chana provides the necessary sustenance and energy during fasting days, keeping you feeling nourished and satiated.
The preparation of Sukha Kala Chana is straightforward, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time. Black chickpeas are soaked overnight and then cooked until tender, after which they are tempered with cumin seeds and green chilies for added flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for those following a fasting diet. With its hearty texture and subtle spices, Sukha Kala Chana is sure to become a favorite during the Navratras and beyond.
Ingredients Required for Making Sukha Kala Chana

- Black chickpeas (काले चने) – 1 cup, soaked overnight
- Cumin seeds (जीरा) – 1 teaspoon
- Green chilies (हरी मिर्च) – 2, slit lengthwise
- Rock salt (सेंधा नमक) – to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ती) – for garnish
Step-wise Process of Making Sukha Kala Chana
- Cook the Black Chickpeas: Drain the soaked black chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. Transfer them to a pressure cooker and add enough water to cover the chickpeas. Add a pinch of rock salt. Pressure cook for 4-5 whistles or until the chickpeas are tender and cooked through.
- Temper the Chickpeas: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Add slit green chilies and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Cooked Chickpeas: Once the cumin seeds start to crackle and the green chilies are aromatic, add the cooked black chickpeas to the pan. Mix well to coat the chickpeas with the tempered spices.
- Adjust Seasonings: Sprinkle some rock salt over the chickpeas according to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Sukha Kala Chana to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.
Number of Servings
This recipe makes approximately 2 servings.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding soaking time)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including pressure cooking time)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Soaking Chickpeas: Ensure to soak the black chickpeas overnight or for at least 6-8 hours to soften them and reduce cooking time.
- Pressure Cooking: Cook the soaked chickpeas in a pressure cooker until they are tender and easily mashable between fingers. This ensures that the chickpeas are cooked through.
- Tempering: The tempering with cumin seeds and green chilies adds flavor to the dish. Adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the Sukha Kala Chana after adding salt and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
How to Serve Sukha Kala Chana

Serve Sukha Kala Chana hot as a snack or a side dish during Navratras fasting days. Pair it with other fasting-friendly dishes like sabudana khichdi, kuttu ki roti, or sama rice for a complete and satisfying meal. It can also be enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness.
Final Thoughts…
Sukha Kala Chana is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a wholesome option during Navratras fasting days. With its minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it offers a delicious way to stay energized and satisfied while observing dietary restrictions. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, Sukha Kala Chana is sure to add variety and flavor to your fasting menu, making it a must-try recipe for the festive season.