Indian Chana Masala
Discover the bold and vibrant flavors of Indian Chana Masala with this easy-to-follow recipe! Perfectly tender chickpeas simmer in a spiced tomato-based curry infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and green chilies. A harmonious blend of warming spices—turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala—creates a fragrant and deeply flavorful dish that’s both wholesome and irresistibly hearty. This vegan and gluten-free delight comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or satisfying meal prep option. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a hint of lemon for a bright finish, Chana Masala pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan, or roti. Ideal for those craving authentic Indian cuisine at home!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas (cooked or canned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- 2 small green chilies (finely chopped)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies, and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the pureed tomatoes and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and starts to release oil.
Mix in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 more minute to toast the spices.
Add the cooked or canned chickpeas, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture.
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pan and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Stir in the garam masala and lemon juice, then adjust salt if needed.
Garnish the chana masala with chopped fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of ground cumin, if desired.
Serve hot with rice, naan, or roti.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1141 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.1 g | 53% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3982 mg | 173% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 159.6 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 42.3 g | 151% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.8 g | ||
| Protein | 45.6 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 365 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 19.8 mg | 110% | |
| Potassium | 2382 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
