Channa Masala

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant and flavorful world of Indian cuisine? If you're a fan of hearty, aromatic dishes, then you're in for a treat with our Channa Masala recipe. This traditional Indian dish features chickpeas simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based gravy, infused with a blend of carefully selected spices.

The combination of textures and flavors in this dish is nothing short of delightful, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a newcomer to Indian cooking, this Channa Masala recipe is sure to impress with its unique and satisfying taste. So, let's dive into the vibrant and aromatic world of Channa Masala!

What Is Channa Masala?

• Channa Masala, also known as Chole Masala, is a popular Indian vegetarian dish made with chickpeas and a blend of aromatic Indian spices. The combination of succulent chickpeas, the rich and flavorful tomato and onion paste, and the unique seasoning create a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect to enjoy with rice or flatbread.
• This classic recipe is a staple in Indian households and is loved for its bold flavors and hearty texture. The use of spices like coriander, red chili, turmeric, and garam masala, along with the tempering of cumin seeds, cloves, and cardamom, gives Channa Masala its distinctive taste that will leave you craving for more.

Why You'll Love Channa Masala?

• Delicious and Flavorful: Channa masala is a delicious and flavorful Indian dish that is filled with aromatic spices and rich, creamy gravy, making it a delightful meal to enjoy.
• Healthy and Nutritious: This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, thanks to the chickpeas and the array of spices used in the recipe. It's a great option for those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet.
• Versatile Texture: The texture of channa masala is a perfect balance of soft chickpeas and a thick, savory gravy. It's satisfying and comforting, making it a great option for a filling and hearty meal.
• Good for Digestion: The spices used in channa masala, such as ginger, garlic, and fenugreek leaves, are known for their digestive properties, making this dish not only delicious but also beneficial for digestion.
• Low in Calories: When prepared with the right ingredients and cooking techniques, channa masala can be a low-calorie and healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
• Great for Meal Prepping: Channa masala is a great dish for meal prepping, as it can be easily stored and reheated, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy days.

Ingredients for Channa Masala

• Canned Chickpeas: Chickpeas are the main ingredient in channa masala, providing a hearty and satisfying texture to the dish. They are a good source of protein and fiber.
• Onion: Onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish, as well as texture. It helps to create a rich, flavorful base for the channa masala.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes bring a tangy and juicy flavor to the channa masala. They also help to create a thick, saucy consistency for the dish.
• Fresh Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add a depth of flavor and a hint of spiciness to the channa masala. They are key components in Indian cooking.
• Green Chilies: Green chilies add a kick of heat and a fresh, spicy flavor to the channa masala. They are essential for adding a spicy element to the dish.
• Spices (Coriander Powder, Red Chili Powder, Turmeric Powder, Garam Masala, Crushed Dry Fenugreek Leaves): The combination of these spices adds layers of complex and vibrant flavors to the channa masala. They create a perfect balance of heat, warmth, and earthiness.

How To Make Channa Masala?

Channa Masala is a delicious and flavorful Indian dish that can be easily made at home. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering channa masala:

• Drain and wash canned chickpeas, then set aside.
• Chop onion, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic roughly, and blend them together until a smooth paste is formed.
• Heat a pan with oil over medium heat, and add all the ingredients given under 'temper' and fry until spluttering.
• Add finely chopped green chilies and fry for a few seconds, then bring the heat to low.
• Add coriander powder, red chili powder, and turmeric powder, stirring continuously until a nice aroma comes.
• Add the onion paste and salt, sauté continuously until the oil oozes out from the masala.
• Add fenugreek leaves and sauté for a few seconds, then pour 1 & 1/2 cups of water, mix well and bring it to a boil.
• Mash 2 tbsp of chickpeas and add it to the masala, mix well until combined.
• Add the remaining chickpeas and garam masala powder, close the pan with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 mins or until it becomes a thick gravy.
• Switch off the heat and garnish it with coriander leaves.

The key to a flavorful channa masala is to ensure the spices are sautéed until fragrant, and the chickpeas are well combined with the masala. By following these steps, you can create a delicious and authentic channa masala dish at home.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Basmati Rice: The flavorful and spicy channa masala is best enjoyed with fragrant basmati rice, which complements the dish perfectly.
• Accompany with Naan Bread: Enjoy your channa masala with warm, soft naan bread for a satisfying and filling meal.
• Serve with Raita: The cool and refreshing yogurt-based raita makes a great side dish to balance the spiciness of the channa masala.
• Add a Side of Pickle: A tangy and spicy pickle on the side adds an extra kick to the meal and enhances the overall flavor.
• Garnish with Lemon Wedges: Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the channa masala for a burst of citrusy flavor.

-Enjoy with Fresh Salad: A light and fresh salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and onions makes a refreshing and healthy addition to the meal.

Tips for Making Delicious Channa Masala

Furthermore, I would like to highlight some key suggestions for perfect channa masala recipe.

• Firstly, soak the chickpeas for minimum 6 hours or overnight. Then drain that water and add fresh water and pressure cook it for a minimum of 6 to 7 whistles. Otherwise, the chickpeas would not cook properly and perhaps half cooked to spoil your taste and stomach.
• In this recipe, I used canned chickpeas which are fully cooked. Basically, it does not require the soaking and cooking steps. But traditionally, people cook this channa masala by using dry chickpeas.
• Secondly, try to add ripe tomatoes for this recipe because it will give a nice color and tangy taste to your curry.
• Mash a small portion of the chickpeas and mix them in the masala to thicken the gravy and create a creamier texture. If you have mashed potatoes, then you can also add it to the channa masala.
• Finally, take care while roasting all the masalas. Do this process in low heat and it takes few seconds only. Don’t let it burnt.

Variations for Channa Masala

• Vegetable Variation: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to add more color and nutrition to the dish. You can experiment with different vegetables to create your unique channa masala recipe.
• Creamy Variation: For a creamier version, you can add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream to the gravy. This will give the dish a rich and indulgent taste that is perfect for special occasions.
• Spicy Variation: If you love spicy food, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add a few extra green chilies to the recipe. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a fiery kick.
• Protein Variation: Instead of chickpeas, you can use other legumes like black-eyed peas or kidney beans to make a different version of channa masala. This variation will provide a unique twist to the classic recipe.
• Nut Variation: Add a handful of cashews or almonds to the dish for a nutty crunch and a touch of richness. This variation will add a delightful texture and depth of flavor to the channa masala.
• Sweet Variation: For a sweeter flavor profile, you can add a spoonful of honey or palm sugar to balance out the spices. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their savory dishes.

Experimenting with these variations will allow you to create a personalized and unique channa masala recipe that suits your taste preferences. Have fun exploring different ingredients and flavors to elevate this classic Indian dish.

How to Store Channa Masala

• Storing Canned Chickpeas: To maintain the freshness of canned chickpeas, it is essential to transfer the contents into an airtight container once opened. Make sure to store the chickpeas along with the liquid to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out.
• Preserving Fresh Spices: To keep the flavor of the fresh spices intact, store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. It is best to use airtight containers to prevent the spices from losing their aroma and potency.
• Maintaining Ground Spices: Ground spices, such as coriander powder, red chili powder, and turmeric powder, should be stored in airtight containers to maintain their flavor. Store them away from heat and moisture to prevent clumping and maintain their freshness.
• Keeping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as coriander leaves, should be stored properly to prevent them from wilting. To keep them fresh, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Long-term Storage: If preparing a large batch of channa masala, consider freezing the dish in portion-sized containers. This will maintain the flavor and quality of the dish for a longer period.
• Refrigeration: Leftover channa masala should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for 3-4 days, allowing for easy meal prep and quick reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned ones?

• Yes, you can definitely use dried chickpeas for this recipe. Just make sure to soak them overnight and then boil them until they are soft before adding them to the masala.

How can I make the channa masala spicier?

• If you prefer a spicier channa masala, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add an extra green chili to the masala while cooking. You can also adjust the amount of garam masala according to your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe without oil?

• Yes, you can certainly make a healthier version of channa masala by using a non-stick pan and dry roasting the ingredients without oil. You can also use a small quantity of water or vegetable broth to sauté the onion-tomato paste.

What can I serve with channa masala?

• Channa masala pairs well with steamed rice, naan, roti, or even quinoa. You can also serve it with some yogurt and a side of pickled onions for a complete meal.

How long does channa masala last in the refrigerator?

• When stored in an airtight container, channa masala can last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to reheat it properly before consuming.

Can I freeze channa masala?

• Yes, you can freeze channa masala in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Recipe Card

Channa Masala

Channa Masala 2017-04-04 06:55:40

Serves 3                             Print        

Prep Time   00:05        

Cook Time   00:25        

Total Time   00:30                      

Ingredients

• 400 grams canned chic peas (channa)
• 1 medium sized onion
• 2 tomatoes (200 grams)
• 1 inch fresh ginger
• 4 to 5 garlic pods
• 2 green chilies finely chopped
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• salt to taste
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp crushed dry fenugreek leaves          

To Temper

• 3 tbsp olive oil or any other oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 3 cloves
• 1 inch cinnamon stick
• 1 black cardamom or 2 green cardamoms
• 1/2 bay leaf          

For Garnishing

• 1 tbsp coriander leaves          

Instructions

• Drain and then wash canned chickpeas and keep it aside.
• Then chop onion, tomatoes, ginger and garlic roughly and place them in a blender, blend until a smooth paste.
• Meanwhile, heat a pan with oil over medium heat,, when the oil heats, add all the ingredients given under 'temper' and fry until spluttering.
• Then add finely chopped green chilies and fry for a few seconds. Be careful of the hot oil because the chilies cause a lot of spluttering otherwise add with onion paste.
• Then bring the heat to low.
• Add coriander powder, red chili powder and turmeric powder, stir continuously till a nice aroma comes. It takes only a few seconds. Don't let it burn.
• Then add onion paste and salt, saute continuously until the oil oozes out from the masala. It takes 8 to 10 mins.
• Then add fenugreek leaves and saute for few seconds.
• Also pour 1 & 1/2 cups of water, mix well and bring it to boil.
• Meanwhile, mash 2 tbsp of chickpeas and add it to the masala, mix well until combined.
• Then add the remaining chickpeas and garam masala powder, close the pan with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 mins or until it becomes a thick gravy.
• Switch off the heat and finally, garnish it with coriander leaves.         

By Santhi Therese    The Indian Claypot

https://theindianclaypot.com/