Description
Chana Masala is a flavorful Indian chickpea curry made with a hearty blend of chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, green chili, and aromatic Indian spices. This dish is perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike and pairs beautifully with basmati or jasmine rice. The dish is quick to prepare and offers a deliciously spiced yet comforting meal loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped, or more to taste
- 1 green chile pepper, seeded and chopped (Optional)
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 fresh bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 pinch salt to taste
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Water, as needed
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas
- 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish, or more to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the paste: Grind the chopped onion, tomato, fresh ginger, garlic, and optional green chile pepper together in a food processor until forming a smooth paste.
- Heat spices in oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the bay leaves in hot oil until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the paste: Pour the prepared paste into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the mixture and it turns golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add spices and season: Stir in chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook and stir the mixture until very hot, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Simmer the curry: Add just enough water to reach a thick sauce consistency and bring to a boil. Stir in the drained chickpeas. Reduce heat to medium and cook until chickpeas are heated through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve hot over basmati or jasmine rice, or with naan bread as desired.
Notes
- Omit green chile to reduce spiciness, especially for children.
- Serve with matar paneer for a complete Indian meal.
- Optional: Serve with Indian naan bread instead of rice for a different accompaniment.
