Hey there, fellow food adventurers! Are you ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that’s not only delicious but also incredibly good for you? I'm talking about Chana Masala - a humble yet glorious chickpea curry that's about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: 'Another chickpea recipe?'. But trust me on this. This isn't just any chickpea dish. It’s a vibrant, aromatic, and utterly satisfying experience that'll have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). And the best part? It's so easy to make, you can whip it up any day of the week, no sweat!
The Magic of Chana Masala
Chana Masala, also known as Chole Masala, is a classic dish hailing from India and Pakistan. What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your liking, whether you like your curry mild or with a fiery kick. You can tweak the spices, add different veggies, or even throw in a bit of coconut milk for a creamier version, the possibilities are endless.
This version, however, focuses on simplicity and nourishment without compromising on taste. And the best part? Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry - think chickpeas, tinned tomatoes, rice and some fantastic spices.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein from the chickpeas, this dish is a fantastic way to fuel your body.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, it's a meal that won't break the bank.
- Easy to Make: Even if you're a beginner cook, you'll find this recipe a breeze.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The blend of spices creates a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Suitable for almost all dietary requirements.
Let's Get Cooking!
Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp garam masala, divided
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp amchoor (dried mango powder) or a squeeze of lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder (adjust to your preference)
- 3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 tsp grated ginger
- 5 curry leaves (fresh or dried)
- 1 tsp salt, more to taste
- 2 x 400g tins of plum tomatoes, crushed
- 4 cups cooked chickpeas
- 1 tsp date syrup (optional)
- Cooked rice or vegan naan bread, to serve
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
- Toasted almond flakes for crunch (optional)
Method:
- Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the sliced onions and cook on low heat until they become soft and translucent, stirring often.
- In a small bowl, mix all the dry spices together, except for 1/2 tsp of garam masala (that gets added later).
- Add the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and curry leaves to the pot. Cook, stirring, until the garlic softens and everything becomes aromatic.
- Add the spice mixture and cook gently, stirring constantly, for a minute or two until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chickpeas, salt, and about two cans of water to the pot. Let the mixture simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, with the lid on for the first 30 minutes to help the tomatoes soften, then remove to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in the remaining 1/2 tsp of garam masala and lemon juice (if not using amchoor). Taste and add the date syrup or other sweetener if desired.
- Serve hot with rice or vegan naan, garnished with fresh coriander and toasted almonds for an extra crunch (optional).
Tips for the Best Chana Masala
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Slow Cook: Allowing the curry to simmer for longer helps the flavors develop even more.
- Make Ahead: Chana Masala tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, potatoes, or cauliflower for an extra boost of nutrients and texture.
So there you have it! A simple, delicious, and healthy Chana Masala recipe that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a cosy night in or a quick and easy lunch, this dish is a great way to celebrate the beauty of plant-based cuisine. Give it a try and let me know how it goes! Remember to tag me in your creations! Happy cooking!