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Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

I recently had this delicious curry on an airline flight, of all places. I knew I could come up with a version to rivel airline food! Vegetarian (and vegan,) but hearty
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup avocado oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 3/4 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small Serrano pepper
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/8 tsp red chili powder
  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2 15 oz cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 2 cups water

Garnish

  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add cumin seeds and onion and sauté 5-6 minutes until golden. (Add a tablespoon of water, if mixture becomes too dry)
  • Add the garlic, ginger and Serrano pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes more, (Deglaze with water, if needed). Add cumin, paprika, turmeric and red chili powders. Stir in a let roast a few seconds. Add tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add chickpeas, baking powder, salt and 2 cups water.
  • Raise the heat to a boil and then reduce to medium-low. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes until chickpeas are tender. Uncover and raise heat to high. Use a potato masher and slightly crush some of the chickpeas. Sauté for another 2 minutes. Adjust seasonings or liquid.
  • Turn off the heat and add garam masala, lemon juice and cilantro. Serve with rice and naan.

Notes

  • Adjust the spices to your preferred level.  Recipe, as written, is about a 2 on 1-5 scale.