Hearty and Flavorful Vegan Chana Masala Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans (14 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook until they begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and cumin seeds to the pan. Stir well and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground paprika, garam masala, and chili powder to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, including the juice, and cook for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
  6. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan, along with the vegetable broth and salt.
  7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. After 15 minutes, taste the chana masala and add more salt if needed. The sauce should be thick and the chickpeas tender.
  9. Serve the chana masala hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro. Offer lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - A large pan will be used to cook the chana masala.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will be needed for chopping the onion.
  • Knife - A knife will be used to chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.
  • Grater - A grater will be used to grate the ginger.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are necessary to accurately measure the spices.
  • Stirring spoon - A stirring spoon will be used to mix the ingredients in the pan.
  • Can opener - A can opener is needed to open the cans of diced tomatoes and chickpeas.

Recipe variations

  • Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Try using different types of beans instead of chickpeas, such as kidney beans or black-eyed peas.
  • For extra heat, add chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different spices like fenugreek leaves, cinnamon, or cardamom to customize the flavor profile.
  • Make it creamier by adding coconut milk or cashew cream towards the end of cooking.
  • Include a handful of chopped fresh mint leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
  • For a heartier version, serve the chana masala over steamed rice or with naan bread.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mash some of the chickpeas before adding them to the pan.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure that the vegetable broth used is gluten-free or substitute it with water.

Recipe overview

Welcome to this flavorful, comforting, and utterly satisfying recipe for Vegan Chana Masala. This dish is a true staple in Indian cuisine, loved for its rich and hearty nature, and it's packed with healthy and wholesome ingredients. The recipe is based on chickpeas (also known as chana), simmered in a fragrant, subtly spiced tomato-based sauce. You'll find the process simple and straightforward, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The spices used in this recipe include cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala, creating an aromatic and warm flavor profile that will make your kitchen smell incredible. You'll love the depth of flavor that you can achieve with this vegan chana masala, which is served garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. This adds a final touch of brightness that brings all the flavors together. By following this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade Vegan Chana Masala that's perfect for a cozy dinner. Enjoy with a side of rice or warm naan bread for a full meal. Happy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. Make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe.
  2. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.
  3. Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier chana masala, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some red pepper flakes. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Let the chana masala cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Chana Masala, also known as Chole Bhature, is a dish that has its roots nestled deep in the North Indian state of Punjab. It is traditionally served with Bhature, a type of fried bread made from maida flour. The dish itself is a spicy and tangy chickpea curry. The name 'Chana Masala' translates to 'spiced chickpeas', which aptly describes the essence of the dish. What makes this dish truly unique is the blend of spices known as 'Chole Masala', which varies from region to region and even between households. It's a staple in Punjabi households and a popular street food across the country. But perhaps the most interesting thing about Chana Masala is that despite its strong Indian origins, it has found a home across the globe, in different cuisines, thanks to its versatility. You can savor it with bread, rice, or even as a filling in a wrap, making it a beloved dish for many, including vegans and vegetarians.

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.