Easy and Delicious Channa Recipe: A Traditional Indian Chickpea Curry

Ingredients

2 cups of chickpeas (soaked overnight)
3 large tomatoes (finely chopped)
2 large onions (finely chopped)
2 green chilies (finely chopped)
1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
2 teaspoons of channa masala powder
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of red chili powder
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add sufficient water and a pinch of salt. Cook until the chickpeas are soft and tender.
While the chickpeas are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds to the hot oil. Once they begin to crackle, add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
Next, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until they are soft and mushy.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and channa masala powder to the pan. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well-blended with the onion-tomato mixture.
Once the chickpeas are cooked, drain them but keep the water. Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and stir well.
Add salt to taste and, if required, some of the water in which the chickpeas were cooked to adjust the consistency of the gravy.
Cook for another 5-10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally until all the flavors are well combined.
Garnish with finely chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Pressure Cooker - Used to cook the chickpeas quickly and efficiently.
Pan - Used to sauté the onions, tomatoes, and spices.
Stove - Used to heat the pan and cook the ingredients.
Spatula - Used to stir and mix the ingredients in the pan.
Knife - Used to finely chop the tomatoes, onions, and green chilies.
Cutting Board - Used as a surface for chopping the vegetables.
Measuring Cups - Used to measure the quantities of chickpeas and other ingredients accurately.
Cooking Spoon - Used to cook the chickpeas and stir the ingredients in the pan.
Strainer - Used to drain the soaked chickpeas and separate them from water.
Cilantro Chopper - Optional but helpful tool to finely chop fresh cilantro for garnishing.

Recipe variations

Add chopped spinach or kale to make it a Channa Palak curry.
Include diced potatoes along with chickpeas for a heartier dish.
For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream.
Experiment with different spices like garam masala, coriander powder, or cumin powder to customize the flavor profile.
Add a tablespoon of tamarind pulp or amchur powder for a tangy twist.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add chopped jalapenos.
Include a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
For a vegan option, use vegetable oil instead of ghee or butter.
Replace the channa masala powder with homemade spice blend for a unique taste.
For a gluten-free version, ensure the spices used are gluten-free and serve with gluten-free flatbreads or rice.

Recipe overview

This recipe page will guide you through the process of preparing a classic Indian dish, Channa or Chole, which is a flavorful chickpea curry. With its rich blend of spices and hearty chickpeas, this dish is a staple in many Indian households. The recipe requires basic ingredients, such as chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, and a selection of spices that together create a savory, aromatic dish. The steps involved are straightforward and aimed at all cooking levels. Expect a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, with soft, tender chickpeas enveloped in a tangy and spicy curry sauce. This dish is perfect for serving with rice or bread and makes for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Common questions

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of soaking them overnight?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas as a convenient alternative. Simply drain and rinse them before using in the recipe.
What can I substitute for channa masala powder?
If you don't have channa masala powder, you can use a combination of garam masala and ground cumin as a substitute. Use equal parts of both spices.
How can I make the dish less spicy?
To make the channa less spicy, reduce or omit the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or squeeze of lemon juice while serving to balance the spice level.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the tomatoes.
How long can I store the leftover channa?
The leftover channa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pressure Cooker - To cook the chickpeas quickly and efficiently.
Pan - For sautéing the onions, tomatoes, and spices.
Spatula - To stir and mix the ingredients while cooking.
Knife - For chopping the tomatoes, onions, and green chilies.
Cutting Board - To provide a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
Measuring Spoons - For accurate measurement of spices.
Serving Bowl - To serve the delicious channa curry.
Garnish Knife - For finely chopping fresh cilantro to use as a garnish.

Origin stories

Channa Masala hails from the vibrant culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent, specifically, the North Indian region of Punjab. The dish is steeped in history, with chickpeas being one of the earliest cultivated legumes dating back thousands of years. The foundation of Channa Masala's unique taste and flavor profile lies in the versatile blend of spices known as 'Channa Masala Powder', a staple in Punjabi kitchens. This hearty dish, eaten with bread or rice, has been part of communal meals, family dinners, and festive occasions, a symbol of the region's hospitality and love for good food. In recent years, Channa Masala has traveled far beyond its Punjabi roots, becoming a favorite in global cuisine, testament to the timeless allure of Indian flavors. The enduring popularity of this humble chickpea curry tells a story of cultural exchange, adaptability, and the universal love for a hearty, spicy, and comforting meal.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.