Chana Masala Recipe
Comforting chickpeas simmered in a tangy tomato-onion masala with ginger, green chilies and warm Pakistani spices.
Ingredients for Chana Masala
- 3 cups cooked chickpeas
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 0.5 tsp turmeric
- 0.5 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Salt and fresh coriander
How to Make Chana Masala
- Heat oil and fry cumin seeds and onions until golden.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, green chilies and powdered spices.
- Cook until the tomatoes break down and oil begins to separate.
- Add chickpeas with a little cooking water and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Lightly mash a few chickpeas to thicken the gravy.
- Finish with garam masala and fresh coriander and serve with roti, naan or rice.
Helpful Notes for Chana Masala
Read the full method before starting, measure the ingredients, and complete any chopping, soaking or marinating first. This makes Chana Masala easier to cook and helps every stage finish at the right time.
Wash, cut and measure the vegetables before heating the pan so they cook evenly. Toast whole spices briefly in oil, add delicate vegetables later, and avoid overcooking so colour and texture remain appealing.
Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate them in a covered container. Reheat gently, adding only a small splash of water so the vegetables do not become watery.
Chana Masala Cooking Tips
- Wash and prepare the vegetables before heating the pan so they cook evenly.
- Toast whole spices briefly in oil to release their aroma before adding other ingredients.
- Avoid overcooking fresh vegetables so their colour and texture remain appealing.
Questions About Chana Masala
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes. Reduce or increase the chilli to suit your household, while keeping the other spices in balance so the dish remains aromatic.
What should I do before I start cooking?
Read the full method once, measure the ingredients, and prepare any chopped items first. This makes the steps easier to follow and helps the dish cook evenly.