Chana Masala
A flavorful and aromatic Indian chickpea curry, simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy. This vegetarian dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal for two, served with rice or naan.
Cook the aromatics
Heat the oil or ghee in a medium pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and **cook** for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and light golden brown. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Cooking the onion until golden adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
- •Fragrant means it smells good and aromatic.
Add the spices and tomatoes
Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Briefly cooking spices helps release their flavors.
- •Simmer means to cook gently just below boiling, with small bubbles.
Simmer the chickpeas
Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to the pot. Stir in the water or vegetable broth and the salt (starting with 1/4 teaspoon, then adjusting to your taste later). Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Rinsing canned chickpeas removes excess salt and improves flavor.
- •Adjust the amount of water or broth to your desired sauce thickness.
Finish and serve
Taste the chana masala and adjust salt or other spices if needed. Garnish generously with the chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor.
- •Chana masala tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Medium pot or deep skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- 💡For a creamier texture, you can mash a small portion of the chickpeas against the side of the pot while simmering.
- 💡Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright finish.
- 💡If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can blend a portion of the tomato-onion mixture before adding chickpeas.
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